Bonfiglioli launches ECGenius (a continuously variable transmission) at Bauma 2019

ECGenius is a high-power, efficient and cost-effective continuously variable transmission dedicated to telehandler vehicles, and also suitable for other equipment. The mechanical variator (patented in Europe, United States and Asia) at the core of this product is the result of over 15 years of development at CVTCORP, Bonfiglioli’s Canadian partner. It lets OEMs downsize the engine while providing unmatched operational ease and overall vehicle performance improvements in the 20 to 30% range. Torque and power are transferred seamlessly through six actuated rollers thanks to the electrohydrodynamic lubrication, which prevents metal to metal contact while ensuring the correct torque transfer without slippage.

The compact format of the ECGenius150 is well-suited to the limited space available in the machine.

Thanks to its special technical features, ECGenius is reliable and efficient. The design is made to handle typical application shock loads; the precise and stable control system is unaffected by load variations … all tested by experience with more than 500,000 cumulative test hours completed in the lab and by OEMs in real-life applications.

The transmission control unit algorithm uses engine and transmission data ensuring maximum vehicle efficiency and overall system optimization. The software is easy to integrate and to include special operating modes for specific applications resulting in maximum productivity. The open architecture and customizable software allow maximum flexibility to adjust to different geographic requirements.

The traction drive mechanical CVT architecture offers smooth, seamless shifting with no steps through an infinite number of effective forward speeds. And the innovative transmission design with advanced control and clutch reduces the number of mechanical components, therefore reducing mechanical and viscous losses. Seamless shifting allows the engine to operate at its optimal operating point translating into fuel efficiency.

ECGenius is the result of an exclusive licensing agreement between Bonfiglioli and CVTCORP, a leader in the design and development of high-efficiency mechanical continuously variable transmissions (mCVT) for the off-highway market. Included in this licensing agreement are the production transfer of the ECGenius150, along with the CVTCORP current sales pipeline with commercialization volume anticipated at the beginning of 2020. For more information, visit www.bonfiglioli.com.