Torvec has a IVT, CVJ and an amazing differential that can replace 4 wheel drive due to its ability to provide power to the wheel that has traction.
The proof is always in the pudding. In other words, some vehicles will have to go through some real-world evaluation. There are always improvements which can be made in any machine. I wish that this one is a step forward.
The June, 20008 issue of THE AUTOMOBILE magazine has an interesting article on transmissions (including CVTs) past, present, and in development.