The 2016 Paris Motor Show will see Infiniti present the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine.
Dubbed VC-T (Variable Compression-Turbocharged), Infiniti describes the new power unit as one of the most advanced internal combustion engines ever created. In development for more than 20 years, the new four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline VC-T engine is said to represent a major breakthrough in internal-combustion powertrain technology.
Roland Krueger, president of Infiniti Motor Company said, “VC-T technology is a step change for Infiniti. It is a revolutionary next-step in optimising the efficiency of the internal combustion engine. This technological breakthrough delivers the power of a high-performance 2.0-litre turbo gasoline engine with a high level of efficiency at the same time.”
VC-T technology is said to signify a new chapter in the story of the internal combustion engine – engines are no longer limited by a fixed compression ratio. The ingenuity lies in the engine’s ability to transform itself and seamlessly raise or lower the height the pistons’ reach. As a consequence, the displacement of the engine changes and the compression ratio can vary anywhere between 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency). The engine control logic automatically applies the optimum ratio, depending on what the driving situation demands.
Infiniti claims that the VC-T technology delivers improvements in fuel consumption and emissions as well as reduced noise and vibration levels; it is also lighter and more compact than comparable conventional engines.
More information on the VC-T engine will be presented at the Infiniti press conference which takes place at 12:30 at the Mondial de l’Automobile on 29 September.