Technology developer Torotrak has supplied a prototype transmission to India-based Tata Motors for use in the Tata Pixel concept car, revealed at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.
The four-seat urban vehicle uses a Torotrak infinitely variable transmission (IVT) to provide responsive performance, good fuel economy and manoeuvrability.
When parking and during tight manoeuvring, the transmission’s ability to control each rear wheel independently is used to enable rotation of these wheels in opposing directions.
By linking the vehicle’s steering system with the control mechanism for the IVT, the car is able to pivot around its rear axle, boosting manoeuvrability and enabling parking in tight spaces.
I want one, but only if it comes with a mechanical KERS and and a Rotrak CVT coupled turbocharger.
I have driven a vehicle using a variation of this Torotrak transmision. Surely the most exciting aspect of modern vehicle developement, with modern combustion engines competing with other questionable types for economy and practicality , eg the BMW118 diesel.How much better with this gearbox ?
Yet it is the Indians who are taking advantage.
Come on Top Gear, give a British innovation, some essential publicity.
Great concept, however IMO the discs and rollers will never be produced to go the distance.
Seven companys to develop satisfactory units for long term use at a usable cost for mass production will IMO be an impossible task.
Wingnut is a well known nay sayer as far as Torotrak is concerned.
Torotrak’s discs and rollers have been tested over many years on their special test beds as well as in prototype vehicles.
They will last the lifetime of any vehicle into which they are incorporated.
Mass production is certainly possible.
Wingnut must not be allowed to get away with this mis-information.