A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a type of transmission that seamlessly changes through an unending range of effective gear ratios while you drive, whereas other kinds of mechanical transmissions offer a fixed number of gear ratios and have hard shifts between each. A CVT transmission system involves two pulleys and an intervening belt or chain, which can infinitely vary gear ratios in real-time. The shiftless nature of a CVT offers unparalleled flexibility that maintains constant angular velocity regardless of output speed. A CVT is similar to an automatic in that it doesnt use any input from the driver, but that is where the similarities end. A CVT doesnt have any gears. Instead, it has two pulleys. One pulley connects to the engine, and the other connects to the wheels. A flexible belt connects the two pulleys.

Advantages of a CVT include a smoother driving experience, enhanced fuel economy, and a smoother ride than a similar car with a regular automatic. CVTs are often more fuel-efficient than a regular automatic, which is part of the reason that they are becoming a more popular choice for automakers in many vehicles.