Top 10 Improvements in Engine Design
Carlos Viteri David Del Castillo Jorge Molina
Technical English 2
Introduction
As you can see, automobile engines have been in constant evolution since the very beginning of motoring. Today they are more powerful, quieter, more durable, less polluting and more fuel-efficient than they have ever been before, thanks to constant advancements in engine design and technology.
The Four-stroke Engine Cycle
Benefits: More fuel-efficient, less polluting
Drawbacks: More complicated, more expensive to manufacture
Forced Induction
Benefits: More power without an increase in engine size
Drawbacks: Fuel consumption, turbo lag
Fuel Injection
Benefits: Better throttle response, increased fuel efficiency, more power, easier starting
Drawbacks: More complexity and potentially expensive repairs
Direct Injection
Benefits: More power, better fuel economy
Drawbacks: More expensive to make, relatively new technology
Aluminum engine blocks
Benefits: Lighter weight leads to more efficiency and better handling
Drawbacks: Can warp at high temperatures
Variable Valve Timing
Benefits: Fuel economy, more flexible power delivery
Drawbacks: Greater cost to produce
On-board Engine Computers
Benefits: Fuel economy, better diagnosis of problems
Drawbacks: Cost, complexity
Clean Diesels
Benefits: Torque, fuel economy, cleaner emissions
Drawbacks: Cost of fuel, low RPMs, higher initial cost
Hybrid Engines
Benefits: Fuel economyDrawbacks: Higher initial cost,
complexity