GM Using Valve Lift Control to Boost MPG on 2014 Impala
According to GM, when the engine operates in 'low-lift mode,' the engine will only pump the air it needs to meet actual engine demand.
Chevrolet's valve lift control system.
Chevrolet's valve lift control system.
General Motors plans to use a type of engine technology called Valve Lift Control on its upcoming 2014-MY Chevrolet Impala, specifically on GM’s Ecotec 2.5L four-cylinder engine. The automaker’s Mike Anderson, GM global chief engineer for Ecotec engines, said this technology will save up to 1 mpg.
According to GM, when the engine operates in “low-lift mode,” the engine will only pump the air it needs to meet actual engine demand. The engine then switches to “high-lift mode” at higher speeds or under heavy load, in order to provide full engine output.
GM said all of the available powertrains on the 2014-MY Impala feature direct injection and lightweight components. The automaker estimates its 2.4L engine, when working with eAssist technology, will be able to produce 182 hp and get 35 mpg highway. The Ecotec 2.5L is part of a new family of four-cylinder engines being produced by GM, and the automaker is estimating horsepower at 195. GM estimates the 3.6L V-6 will be able to produce up to 303 hp. All of these engines in the Impala are matched with six-speed automatic transmissions.
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