NISSAN INTRODUCES UNIQUE NEW 'HYPERTRONIC CVT'

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

19 May 1999

 

NISSAN INTRODUCES UNIQUE NEW ‘HYPERTRONIC CVT’

 

Nissan is set for the European launch of a new continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is compatible with the power and torque of a 2.0-litre engine.  Nissan is the world’s first manufacturer to introduce this technology, which will be available on a new volume model to be launched in the European market later this year.

 

Called ‘Hypertronic CVT’, this new technologically-advanced ‘stepless’ automatic transmission provides enhanced efficiency and smoothness compared with conventional automatic transmissions. For drivers requiring more involvement, ‘Hypertronic CVT M6’ is also available, with a refined six-speed manual-shift mode and sequential operation.

 

In layout, Nissan’s Hypertronic CVT maintains the familiar shift pattern of traditional automatics, P-R-N-D-L. However, in operation it is quite different.   Hypertronic CVT provides a totally smooth operation, with no sensation of ‘shift-shock’. Furthermore, while normal automatic transmissions carry a fuel consumption penalty compared with manual alternatives, Hypertronic CVT is more fuel efficient than conventional automatics.

 

Hypertronic CVT M-6 – with six-speed manual shift mode - offers a second selector position to the left of the traditional gate, marked with a simple plus and minus. With the gear lever in this left-hand quadrant of the gate, the driver can manually select the six predetermined gear ratios by simply pulling or pushing

 

Nissan introduces unique new ‘Hypertronic CVT’…2

 

the selector – a second world-first feature of this transmission. This option provides a more involving and rewarding driving experience than traditional automatic transmissions.

 

Hypertronic CVT generates significantly less internal friction than conventional automatic transmissions. Instead of a series of planetary gears, this CVT uses two variable diameter pulleys connected by a high-precision segmented steel belt. The system is optimised for the engine’s peak operating efficiency and is almost seamless.

 

To cope with the extra torque of a 2.0-litre engine, the new Hypertronic transmission uses a significantly broader high-strength steel drive belt and high-pressure hydraulic control of the pulley system. Unlike the CVT used on the B-segment Micra, the drive of the Hypertronic CVT is regulated by a torque converter, rather than an electromagnetic clutch.

 

By adopting a torque converter, Hypertronic CVT develops a small amount of ‘creep’, a positive characteristic in automatic transmissions, and a convenient feature for smooth driving in dense traffic conditions. The new Hypertronic transmissions are the first CVTs in the world with ‘creep’, which is also useful for uphill starting and parking. In addition, unique to continuously variable transmissions, Hypertronic CVT also carries a very important functional benefit: during deceleration, the driver can obtain an engine braking effect, which is unique for a continuously variable transmission.

 

Nissan leads the world in the development of CVT. The UK-built Micra has been available with Nissan’s CVT system since launch in 1992.

ends…

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Andrew Roberts        Product Affairs Manager                  01923 899930

E-mail:                         [email protected]

Linda Robinson         Product Press Officer                       01923 899930

E-mail:                         [email protected]

24769/190599