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

Overhead Camshafts

Benefits: Better performanceDrawbacks: Increased complexity

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