What's the difference between brushless and continuously variable transmission (CVT)?

First, let's understand the concepts of "brushless" and "continuously variable transmission."

"Brushless" usually refers to a type of motor, also known as a brushless DC motor (BLDC). This type of motor differs from traditional brushed DC motors. In a brushed DC motor, the motor's operation relies on the sliding contact between carbon brushes and the commutator to transfer current, thus enabling the motor to rotate. A brushless DC motor, however, replaces the traditional mechanical commutator with an electronic commutator, avoiding the need for periodic carbon brush replacement due to mechanical wear, thereby improving the motor's reliability and lifespan.

The concept of "continuously variable transmission" (CVT) relates more to the continuity and smoothness of gear changes. Traditional mechanical transmissions typically have fixed gears, resulting in a series of jerks during gear shifts. A CVT, on the other hand, allows for continuous gear changes, making vehicle acceleration and deceleration smoother and providing a more comfortable driving experience.

Therefore, while the concepts of "brushless" and "continuously variable transmission" are technically related, they differ in practical applications. Brushless motors can be used to achieve continuously variable transmissions, but not all brushless motors need to achieve this. Similarly, continuously variable transmissions can also be achieved by other types of motors or transmissions, such as CVT (continuously variable transmission).