Continuously variable transmission

A continuously variable accessory drive system (CVAD) having a longitudinal axis, the CVAD comprising:

• a shaft arranged along the longitudinal axis;
• a first traction ring coaxial with the longitudinal axis;
• a plurality of traction planets in contact with the first traction ring, the traction planets arranged angularly about the longitudinal axis;
• a carrier operably coupled to the each of the traction planets, the carrier having a plurality of radially offset guide slots;
• an idler assembly in contact with each of the traction planets, the idler assembly located radially inward of each traction planet, the idler assembly having first and second rolling elements, wherein a contact surface on the first rolling element and a contact surface on the second rolling element are angled at an angle between 5 and 45 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the CVAD;
• a needle bearing coupled to a shaft sleeve and the first rolling element, the needle bearing axially constrained to the first rolling element;
• and
• an alternator coupled to the shaft.