Hyundai introduces new engine with variable duration
Engineers at Hyundai Motor Group has developed the world’s first Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology which will debut in the latest Smartstream 1.6 T-GDI engine. The tech will eventually be available for Hyundai and Kia vehicles in the future.
Hyundai says that the new technology offers 4 per cent improvement in performance, 5 per cent better fuel economy, and cleaner emissions by 12 per cent. This is the result of valve control according to driving conditions.
As the name suggests, CVVD takes control of valve duration (length of time valve is open) as opposed to conventional valve control technology which manages valve lift. For example, the engine with CVVD will open the intake from the middle to end of the compression stroke while driving at a constant speed which needs lower engine power. Consequently, this reduces resistance caused by the compression thus helping fuel efficiency.
Conversely, the intake valve is closed at the beginning of the compression stroke to maximise amount of air mixed with fuel in the combustion chamber. This enhances torque to improve acceleration.
The turbocharged Smartstream G1.6-litre, 4-cyl engine which comes with the new CVVD technology makes 180bhp and 265Nm of torque. On top of variable duration, it also features Low-Pressure Exhaust Gas Recirculation (LP EGR) to reduce nitrogen oxide emission. There’s the integrated Thermal Management System too alongside stronger injector sprays with 350 bar pressure compared to the previous T-GDI engine which uses 250 bar of pressure. Internal friction is lowered by 34 per cent by utilising low friction moving parts.
The new Smartstream G1.6 T-GDI engine will be first seen in the Hyundai Sonata Turbo, set to debut second-half of this year.
