Optimum efficiency whatever the driving conditions: Lexus uses this statement as a criteria upon which the performance of its hybrid vehicles should be judged.
A means for delivering this promise comes from the seamless pairing of the Lexus hybrid’s petrol and electric motors with an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission, also known as E-CVT.
What is E-CVT?
E-CVT is an intelligent transmission that has an infinite number of gear ratios at its disposal. By constantly analysing vehicle speed, road conditions, engine power and driver input, it selects the optimal (most efficient) gear ratio for that precise moment.
When that moment passes, it moves seamlessly and imperceptibly to the next ratio through the clever combination of planetary gears seen in the rendering above – a setup that is fundamentally different to the drive belt and conical pulley arrangement of more traditional continuously variable transmissions.
Why is E-CVT ideal for petrol-electric hybrids?
Without the constraining effect of fixed gear ratios, the engine can be operated at its most efficient speed to either propel the car or charge the batteries. And if the computer decides that the petrol motor is not needed for a time, it can be shut down and the twin-input E-CVT used to direct propulsion from the electric motors to the wheels instead.
Where available, the transmission enhances driver engagement through two means. Firstly, models with a sequential function built into the E-CVT system generate the feeling of manually changing gear ratios by providing a closer match between increases in engine and vehicle speed. This is also used to deliver stepped engine braking force under deceleration.
Secondly, models with a sport mode built into the E-CVT change the sensation of dynamic performance by increasing engine speed more rapidly during acceleration, as demonstrated in the diagram below.
As a key element in the Lexus Hybrid Drive experience, we are convinced that E-CVT delivers on its promise of transferring propulsion and performance to the driving wheels with optimal efficiency. Why not try it for yourself?
More from Lexus performance:
Lexus performance: fashioned by the wind
Philosophy of Lexus ‘F’ models
Lexus says, ‘Quiet please’
Lexus champions people power
Lexus increases recycling performance
The performance of plastic
Lexus RC F revealed in Detroit
Lexus IS 300h – five-star safety performer
Performance and efficiency – how?
LFA ‘Code X’ to race at Nurburgring 24 Hours
Interview: Yukihiko Yaguchi
World debut of new Lexus RC F – first pictures
Lexus and the performance of hybrid
A closer look inside the Lexus LFA’s V10
So are you saying the ct cvt does not have the belt drive found on other cvt cars
Hello Adrian
Thanks for your post and hope you liked the article.
That is correct, they no longer have the belt drive just meshing gears. If it helps earlier CVT’s did used to have a steel belt (like a chain) but this has now changed.
Hope this helps and let us know if you have any other questions.
Hi!
Do Lexus RX450h 2010 year model have gear E-CVT or belt CVT?
Thanks!
Hi there,
This model has E-CVT. Many thanks!
Everything sounds perfect till… you have problems with this driveline. In my IS 300h I have problems with vibrations from the beginnig. Nobody can or want to help me, even warranty. I lost any hope regarding reliability od Lexus. Don’t believe? – please find such issues in internet.
Hi Peter,
Thanks for getting in touch and we are sorry to hear that you are experiencing these issues. We would recommend for you to contact your nearest Lexus Centre as they will be able to assist you further with these problems.
Thanks.
Hi there, can you please tell me if a 2015 Rx450h Premier has Cvt or Ecvt ? It’s listed Premier Cvt on v5
Hi Gerry,
Thanks for getting in touch. We can confirm that the vehicle has E-CVT.
We hope this helps.
Hi there, can you please tell me if a 2014 NX 300h Luxury has Cvt or Ecvt ?
Thanks
Tomas
Hi Tomek,
Thanks for getting in touch and we apologise for the delay in replying. We can confirm that it has an E-CVT.
Thanks.
Hi there can you please tell me if an 2015 is300h has an CVT or an E-CVT. Thanks in advance
Hi Bogdan,
Thanks for getting in touch. The 2015 IS300h has an E-CVT.
Thanks.
Hello. Can you tell me, please, if the models ct or is after 2015, are you an oil filter at the gearbox? Thanks
Hi Stefan,
Thanks for getting in touch with us. We would recommend contacting Toyota in your region for further help with this.
Thanks.
Hello. Adrian Alder here again. Now have a UX250h. Does the engine have fuel injected into the manifold to help clean the engine. I am worried about the EG R becoming choked.
Hello Adrian,
Thank you for contacting us.
We have checked with our technical team, and the engine in the UX250h has both direct and port type fuel injection.
Thanks.
Hi there, what engine speed would a 2020 RX 450h when cruising at 70mph please?
Hello Jim,
Thank you for contacting us.
Our technical team would advise you to drive your vehicle in normal mode in order to check this.
Thanks.
Lexus ES350 2008 has CVT or E-CVT?
Hello Salil,
Thank you for contacting us.
Please contact Lexus in your region for specification information relating to your specific vehicle.
Thanks.