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That is key, any kind of transmission can be automated, even a manual with some servos(probably wouldn't even need synchros). What is needed is an efficient transmission of energy to the wheels. CVTs have some inherent losses in them, as do automatics (plus costs). This needs to be weighed against the operating efficiency parameters of the engine/motor, and I don't know of many/any cases where cvt would come out ahead.
If you want to automate acceleration for best efficiency, you basically replace the gas pedal with a footswitch, it simply becomes a command for "accelerate at best efficiency", and hopefully it freewheels when not accelerating. I think this is very doable, today. But "power" and "performance" still sells cars too...
Just a caveat about extreme automation, will it allow some measure of "civil disobedience" when the situation calls for it, either to exceed the speed limit on a pulse for even greater efficiency, or in an "emergency"?
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