NoMoreGears

NuVinci

NuVinci is a revolution in transmissions. Instead of using clunky and grinding gears, it uses balls as a new way of transmitting mechanical power. The NuVinci variator is an innovative new continuously variable transmission (CVT). What I like even more about it, is that the core technology is so scalable. It could work in anything from wind turbines to bicycles and anything in between.

The advantages of the technology are plenty. From eas of use (if you can turn the volume knob on your radio you can shift), to a complete silent operation to effeciency. As the motor (also the human motor) is always in the right gear it can perform in its most effecient cadence or rpm. That is why a CVP is always first in overall system wide efficiency.

What makes it so special to me is that there is no metal to metal contact. No wear and tear -or at least I haven’t seen this- no grinding, no noise.

What really got me the first time I looked at it, is how simple the core principle is. It just hurts that you did not invent it yourself when singing under the shower, or when riding a bike. It is based on the different circumference of a ball or sphere. Imagine that the circumference close to the “pole” is smaller than the one close to the “equator”.
Instead of gears it uses rotating balls to transfer torque.

Tilting the spheres or balls changes their contact diameters, permitting an infinite progression of speed ratios. The result is smooth, seamless and continuous transition to any ratio within its range, maximizing overall powertrain efficiency and ride quality.

Look at the video to see how it works. We have video’s in English, Dutch and German.

At the moment the NuVinci hub is being implemented with an ever increasing number of bicycle manufactuers. Also we have prototypes (or early production models) working in electric scooters, lawn and garden tractors, and even a SUV car.

I will post a picture of all this. I just love it. One idea, so many usages and unlimited ratios.

The best thing to find out more about it is to ride a scooter, bike or car with it. Once you rode a NuVinci equipped vehicle, you understand.