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In addition to the benefits described for all automotive applications, the following specific benefits apply to buses and commercial vehicles.
Smoothness caused by lack of gearshifts
The IVT provides a refined drive without any jerky gearshifts, improving both passenger and driver comfort.
The ability to provide a controlled launch
The software control of the IVT enables the launch acceleration to be set to the required level to suit the customer's requirements. In a bus application a progressive launch strategy would reduce the occurrence of accidents to standing passengers.
Anti-roll back on inclines
The Torotrak IVT is torque controlled rather than ratio controlled. Torque control plus the lack of a starting device allows fine low speed control and the ability to hold a vehicle on an incline indefinitely. The anti-roll back feature can be pre-programmed as a safety feature so the vehicle will not roll backwards down an incline.
Elimination of retarder
The IVT can apply engine braking torque to the wheels to oppose vehicle's motion. This feature can be used to assist the brakes in slowing down a vehicle in the same manner as a retarder.
Collision prevention
Torque control combined with the geared neutral capability provides fine low speed control. This feature, when used in conjunction with proximity sensors, can prevent collisions with people or objects not in the driver's line of vision.
