Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
Torque converters can be made robust for towing, especially with extra cooling.
The problem is all that slippage causes heat, and the transmission fluid loses its properties once it heats above a certain temperature.
I wonder if Toyota's eCVT could scale up to semi truck size and actually be more efficient with a hybrid setup? No gearbox, and always in the right "gear".
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I'm fairly certain the answer is yes and already been done. Check out the GM 2 mode hybrid trucks, they're based on technology by Allison that I believe was used in several city bus models. I don't have time to research it right now so I hope my memory is serving me correctly.