by "bhtooefr" (bhtooefr)
Published 01/09/2017 at 18:01
by "bhtooefr" (bhtooefr)
Published 01/09/2017 at 18:01
Tags: bullshift
; toyota
; camry
; hybrid
; smug alert
; fake shifting
; e-cvt
; ecvt
STARS: 0
Last time in Bullshift, we discussed the Lexus LC 500h, and its 4-speed e-CVT that pretends to be a 10-speed automatic at all times. Today’s offender is also an e-CVT from Toyota, the 2018 Camry Hybrid.
The hybrid’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) features a new Sport Mode setting that allows the driver to execute smooth yet quick “gear” shifts of the simulated 6-speed sequential shift transmission. The SE grade adds paddle shifters for increased fun and a more sporting driving experience. The Sport Mode setting also improves acceleration and feel thanks to an electric power boost from the hybrid system.
Credit for not putting fake shifting in the normal mode, unlike the LC... but you have to get the fake shifting to get maximum electric power? (I wonder how much acceleration is actually helped, or if the electric power boost is simply torque filling when the ICE output is reduced by suboptimal RPM operation, though...)
That’s a bunch of bullshift.
"Steve in Manhattan" (blogenfreude01)
01/09/2017 at 18:06, STARS: 0
Like EPS, why is there a rush to CVTs? If drivers like a ‘real’ transmission and will pay to fix it if it breaks, where is the harm?
"bhtooefr" (bhtooefr)
01/09/2017 at 18:09, STARS: 1
In this case (as in the LC 500h case), it’s not even a real CVT, it’s a power split transmission. These will behave like a CVT in ideal operation, but they’re mechanically nothing like a CVT, and have no wear elements. (Essentially, one electric motor provides counter-torque for the engine, dragging its RPM down while generating some power (some of the engine’s power goes to the wheels mechanically, however), and sending that power to the other electric motor or battery (depending on what’s going on) as needed.)
And, the harm is in efficiency and performance - if you’re dropping the engine off of its optimum RPM for the current power demand, and sending it above that optimum RPM, to simulate gearshifts, you’re reducing efficiency and/or performance depending on what’s happening.
"Steve in Manhattan" (blogenfreude01)
01/09/2017 at 18:28, STARS: 0
Cars in that class are expected to be smooth - you’d expect a manufacturer to develop a transmission that would be neither seen nor heard yet perform at maximum efficiency. Clients sometimes buy me a car home, and I always enjoyed riding in an LS 4whatever or 600Lh ... very comfortable and smooth, and barely a thump over expansion joints. Favorite taxi her? A Highlander - smooth, comfy, and quiet.
"bhtooefr" (bhtooefr)
01/09/2017 at 18:30, STARS: 0
And, really, at least this transmission will behave as a normal Toyota e-CVT in normal or (I assume it has one) Eco modes, where it’ll be as smooth and unobtrusive as possible.
It’s the whole thing where it fakes a 6-speed automatic in Sport mode that I find ridiculous, really.
"Steve in Manhattan" (blogenfreude01)
01/10/2017 at 08:59, STARS: 0
Yeah, why not just use a real one?