Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/#commentsFiled under: ,



So there you are on May 1 minding your own business on the internet when a forum user called "V12Baker" uploads a picture of the engine block above. But you're on the LS1 forum, a site devoted to the legendary V8s made by General Motors, and that's a V12. V12Baker explains that he sliced two LS1 engines and used the pieces to not only make an LS12, but also a V4 with the leftovers. That is probably when, like user "3.8redbird," you write "April Fools day is April 1st not May 1st."

But the engine is real, built by a guy named Ray and his partners in a shop in Seattle, WA. Ray said they wanted to make a V12 engine for a plane, and after experimenting with Buick 215 engine blocks they got around to the LS. With a stock stroke and a 4.4-inch sleeve, the result is a 545 cubic inch motor (8.9 liters) that fires like a V16 short of four cylinders. Their first two LS12 builds went into a 3/4-scale P51 Mustang, and a Chevrolet Tahoe two years ago. The Tahoe engine, only the second build, was said to get around 525 horsepower.

They now have the parts to make five more LS12s and are refining their technique, working on simpler solutions for the crankshafts - they machined the first crankshafts from a solid piece of steel, but that's crazy expensive. One of the engines is already slated to receive a massive Littlefield supercharger and "might find its way into a long-nosed 240Z." That Z, mind you, will also be getting its own chassis since the decades-old original item couldn't begin to handle the power.

Check out EngineLabs.com for more on the build, and a brief walkaround of the engine in the video below. For the long story, the link to LS1 forums is where the story begins - and where you'll discover that the V4 is apparently the perfect size for a Harley-Davidson.

Continue reading 12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video]

12-cylinder 'LS12' will blow your mind, doors off [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginegmls v12ls1ls12v12videovimeoFri, 10 May 2013 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563736/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/12-cylinder-ls12-will-blow-your-mind-doors-off/20563736/article-detail.xml 20563736 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ls12-build_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ls12-build.jpg <![CDATA[Meet The LT1: The Corvette C7's new 6.2-liter small block V8 [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/meet-the-lt1-the-corvette-c7s-new-6-2-liter-small-block-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/meet-the-lt1-the-corvette-c7s-new-6-2-liter-small-block-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/24/meet-the-lt1-the-corvette-c7s-new-6-2-liter-small-block-v8/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Chevrolet is making huge news today, revealing most all of the details about its new, fifth-generation Small Block V8 engine - dubbed LT1 - the very mill that will power the upcoming 2014 Corvette. Note that we'll be updating this post all morning as the information keeps streaming in, so check back often.

Preliminary numbers suggest no less than 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque.

The Corvette's new LT1 V8 engine is, no surprise here, set to make the car very competitive within its class. Preliminary numbers suggest no less than 450 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque for the 6.2-liter engine, as well as an estimated 0-60 mile per hour time of less than 4.0 seconds when installed in the base C7. To put those numbers in perspective a bit: The LT1 not only has a far higher specific output than the 6.2-liter LS3 that it replaces - up at least 20 hp and 26 lb-ft - but its torque is seemingly competitive with that of the 7.0-liter LS7 that lives in the heart of the current Corvette Z06.

With all that power and accelerative performance, Chevy engineers are still keeping fuel economy in mind - with the help of cylinder deactivation, the new Corvette powerplant is expected to deliver more than 26 miles per gallon on the highway, though figures for city driving are still unknown. The new small block also benefits from the latest advanced engine tech like direct injection, continuously variable valve technology and a relatively high 11.5:1 compression ratio, all while coming in a claimed 40-pounds lighter and four inches shorter than the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 by BMW. Chevy also notes that while premium fuel is recommended, it is not required with the LT1. We're also told that a dry sump oil system is optional (a traditional wet sump unit is standard).

GM is calling the LT1 its most advanced combustion system ever. The company analyzed literally hundreds of systems to get to this final product, including crunching over 6 million hours of CPU time dedicated to combustion system optimization, and nearly 10 million hours when combustion, structure, cooling systems, lubrication and vent systems are factored in. In fact, the motor and its systems are so advanced that an academic SAE paper is being written to explain the whole shebang. The engine will also be built at the company's 75-year-old Tonawanda plant, which happens to be where Chevy's original small block V8 was produced way back in 1955.

There is a load of detailed information from GM, in our gallery of slides from the presentation this morning. Please excuse the lowish quality of the images here - we decided to err on quality in favor of bringing you all of the LT1 info we could, as fast as was possible.

UPDATE: Press release added below with more details.

UPDATE II: For much more information on the new small block, including videos of it on the dyno and additional tech details, click here for our more detailed feature.

Continue reading Meet The LT1: The Corvette C7's new 6.2-liter small block V8 [UPDATE]

Meet The LT1: The Corvette C7's new 6.2-liter small block V8 [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevycorvetteenginelt1small blockWed, 24 Oct 2012 09:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20359184/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/24/meet-the-lt1-the-corvette-c7s-new-6-2-liter-small-block-v8/20359184/article-detail.xml 20359184 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/chevrolet-gen-v-small-block-v8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/chevrolet-gen-v-small-block-v8.jpg <![CDATA[Bloodhound SSC test-fires engine, land-speed record is in danger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/bloodhound-ssc-test-fires-engine-land-speed-record-is-in-danger/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/bloodhound-ssc-test-fires-engine-land-speed-record-is-in-danger/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/bloodhound-ssc-test-fires-engine-land-speed-record-is-in-danger/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bloodhound SSC Engine

If you remember the Bloodhound Supser Sonic Car, you know the team behind the monstrosity is out to make sure the land-speed record remains in British custody for the foreseeable future. Currently, the record sits at 763 miles per hour, set by the ThrustSSD in 1997, but the Bloodhound gang wants to see that number upped to 1,050 mph. On land.

For those of you who are counting, that's Mach 1.4.

The team is already well on its way. It just completed the first test firing of its rocket system, and the get up produces a whopping 14,000 pounds of thrust.

The engine sucks down a liquid peroxide and solid synthetic rubber fuel mix and will work in conjunction with a Cosworth CA2010 F1 V8 engine to scoot the Boodhound down the salt flats. If that's not cool enough to ice your cucumbers, the whole kit was designed by 28-year-old, self-trained rocket engineer Daniel Jubb. Look out below for a video of the test run, completed in the safety of a bomb shelter.

Continue reading Bloodhound SSC test-fires engine, land-speed record is in danger

Bloodhound SSC test-fires engine, land-speed record is in danger originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bloodhoundbloodhound sscbloodhound test firecosworthenginef1fastest carfastest car on landland-speed recordrocket enginetest fireFri, 05 Oct 2012 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20342641/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/05/bloodhound-ssc-test-fires-engine-land-speed-record-is-in-danger/20342641/article-detail.xml 20342641 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/bloodhound-ssc-engine-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/bloodhound-ssc-engine-628.jpg <![CDATA[Taking bets on what GM has planned for Gen V small-block V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/taking-bets-on-what-gm-has-planned-for-gen-v-small-block-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/taking-bets-on-what-gm-has-planned-for-gen-v-small-block-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/taking-bets-on-what-gm-has-planned-for-gen-v-small-block-v8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



A picture of a fuel injector (above), a few facts and a lot of supposition is all we know about the fifth-generation small-block engine on its way from General Motors. It is expected to debut sometime shortly in the C7 Chevrolet Corvette and be rolled out with the next-generation full-size pickup trucks, but no one is exactly sure what it will be.

What we do know is that it will have a cast aluminum block, direct injection, variable valve timing, a higher compression ratio and 4.4-inch bore centers, flex-fuel capability and it will be more fuel efficient. From there, the site EngineLabs.com runs through the rest of the rumors and the odds of them becoming reality. In the "Sure Bet" column, EL figures a more aggressive system of Active Fuel Management will be introduced for even greater efficiencies.

A surprising prediction to which EL gives a 98-percent chance regards displacement: several outlets have talked of a "base" 5.5-liter model with 440 horsepower that mimicked the numbers of the 2010 Corvette Racing C6.R, but EL expects a 6.2-liter and 5.3-liter V8 and a 4.3-liter small block that it thinks could be a V6. Engineers have already said that the 5.5-liter (or 5.3-liter if EL is correct) will not go into the Corvette. The site also thinks the C7 will be introduced with at least 450 hp. Lower down in the 90th percentile odds are innovations like a raised camshaft tunnel, dry-sump oiling for performance variants and eAssist.

After that, things get rather cloudy. A concentric camshaft only gets even odds, there's just a 20-percent chance of three valves per cylinder, and a mere 10-percent chance of an active intake manifold. As for that "advanced combustion system" that we know is coming, EL wonders if it will be genuinely all new, or a new variation on the Otto cycle. Head on over to Engine Labs to get all the insight and their rationales.

Taking bets on what GM has planned for Gen V small-block V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 09:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletcorvetteengineGen Vgeneral motorsgmsmall blockv8Mon, 10 Sep 2012 09:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319147/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/10/taking-bets-on-what-gm-has-planned-for-gen-v-small-block-v8/20319147/article-detail.xml 20319147 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gen-vsmall-blockinjector_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/gen-vsmall-blockinjector.jpg <![CDATA[BMW suing Saab Automobile Parts for $3.2M]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/bmw-suing-saab-automobile-parts-for-3-2m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/bmw-suing-saab-automobile-parts-for-3-2m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/24/bmw-suing-saab-automobile-parts-for-3-2m/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Saab 9-3 Convertible Independence Edition - front three-quarter view

Saab might be all but dead, but that's not stopping automakers that were once involved with the Swedish brand from attempting to reclaim losses. According to a Fox Business report, BMW has filed a 2.6 million Euro suit ($3.2 million USD) with a Swedish district court against Saab Automobile Parts for deliveries that went unpaid.

In 2012, Saab Automobile AB signed an agreement BMW that would see the German automaker deliver four-cylinder gas engines for its 9-3 range.

The suit also asserts that Saab ordered a large number of spare parts, and no payments were made to BMW. At the time, Saab was far from liquid, and filed for bankruptcy in December of last year.

Though Saab was left with assets that totaled $500 million, the Swedish automaker's debts amounted to $2 billion, a part of which include the unpaid BMW deliveries.

According to the report, Lennart Stahl, CEO of Saab Automobile Parts AB has said "Our lawyers will now go through the lawsuit carefully and see if anything new has been added before we decide hat to do." This only adds to the fallout from the Saab closure. Recently, Saab's owner, Spyker filed suit with General Motors for $3 billion, claiming that the U.S. automaker, through its leadership, played a large part in bankrupting the brand.

BMW suing Saab Automobile Parts for $3.2M originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2012 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4-cylinder9-3bailoutbmwchapter 11engineinline 4saab 9-3Fri, 24 Aug 2012 18:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20308408/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/24/bmw-suing-saab-automobile-parts-for-3-2m/20308408/article-detail.xml 20308408 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/saab-93_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/saab-93.jpeg <![CDATA[Chrysler considering $200M investment to boost Pentastar V6 production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/chrysler-considering-200m-investment-to-boost-pentastar-v6-prod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/chrysler-considering-200m-investment-to-boost-pentastar-v6-prod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/chrysler-considering-200m-investment-to-boost-pentastar-v6-prod/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Pentastar V6 engine

The Pentastar V6 has been Chrysler's magic bullet as of late, combining solid power and impressive fuel efficiency. The do-all powerplant has found its way into a just about any Chrysler Group vehicle with an engine bay to accept it. Jeep and Journey alike have enjoyed the benefits of the dual-overhead cam 3.6-liter mill.

Chrysler is pondering an investment of $200 million into its Detroit Mack I facility to increase Pentastar production. Meanwhile, Chrysler plans to halt production of the aging 3.7-liter V6 at the Mack II facility. The 200 employees that were laid off by the idling of Mack II will be reemployed at other Chrysler Group facilities in the area.

According to the Automotive News report, if an agreement can be reached with the local government, the Mack I plant would switch over from producing the 4.7-liter V8 to the popular 3.6-liter Pentastar engine. Currently, the Pentastar is also produced in Trenton, Michigan, and Saltillo, Mexico.

If the proposal was approved, Chrysler will not only produce the 3.6-liter version of the Pentastar, but also intends on building variants with different displacements.

Chrysler canceled its usual summer shutdown, and the Trenton and Saltillo facilities have been working overtime to meet demand for the popular engine.

Chrysler considering $200M investment to boost Pentastar V6 production originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.6Lchryslerdetroitenginemichiganpentastarv6Tue, 24 Jul 2012 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284623/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/chrysler-considering-200m-investment-to-boost-pentastar-v6-prod/20284623/article-detail.xml 20284623 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/23-2011-dodge-grand-caravan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/23-2011-dodge-grand-caravan.jpg <![CDATA[Stop-motion engine rebuild makes it look too easy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/stop-motion-engine-rebuild-makes-it-look-too-easy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/stop-motion-engine-rebuild-makes-it-look-too-easy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/stop-motion-engine-rebuild-makes-it-look-too-easy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Stop Motion Triump Spitfire Rebuild

The Triumph Spitfire is an interesting piece of engineering. There's plenty to love about the pint-sized convertible. It weighs so little, an enraged internet writer can pick it up enough to scoot it sideways in the garage with his bare hands. Early examples were drop dead gorgeous and foolishly simple to work on, and parts are perfectly easy to find. But there are drawbacks, though. For one, the machines are about as safe as trying to tie your shoe laces with a rusty blender, and reliability is a term we can confidently say was never muttered in the Triumph offices of the day.

Then there's the power problem. Four-cylinder models were propelled by an anemic 1.3-liter engine with around 75 horsepower when equipped with dual SU carbs. This isn't a machine we'd call quick.

Still, the cars command a surprising loyalty from fans, and one die-hard Spit owner recently went through the headache of completely tearing down and rebuilding the tiny four-pot. He was also kind enough to film the whole process in stop motion. The toil took 11 months, and the quick film features over 3,000 images. Check out the video for yourself below.

Continue reading Stop-motion engine rebuild makes it look too easy

Stop-motion engine rebuild makes it look too easy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>engineengine rebuildrebuildspitfirestop motionstop motion videotriumphtriumph spitfirevideoFri, 29 Jun 2012 12:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20269020/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/29/stop-motion-engine-rebuild-makes-it-look-too-easy/20269020/article-detail.xml 20269020 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/stop-motion-spitfire-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/stop-motion-spitfire-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is what the 2013 Ford Focus ST sounds like [w/audio]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST - yellow - front three-quarter view

To say that we're eager to drive the 2013 Ford Focus ST is one of the understatements of the year. After seeing lots of photos and videos, we can't wait to get Ford's new hot hatch out on the road, and now, we have a pretty good idea of what sort of aural stimulation the turbocharged Focus will provide while we're tossing it about.

Ford understands that a good engine and exhaust note is an important part of any performance car's overall experience, and to that end, the automaker has implemented some interesting technology with its Focus ST. Engineers have added a special sound tube - called a sound symposer - to the ST, which specifically enhances the throaty, low-end frequencies of the exhaust. This sort of sound tube has been used before (on the Mustang and Mazda MX-5 Miata), but here in the Focus ST, there's an electronically controlled valve that opens and closes based on specific driver inputs. What's more, this valve is mapped more aggressively in lower gears for great sounds during acceleration, but stays shut more often in higher gears to allow for quieter highway cruising.

But enough of the technical mumbo-jumbo. Click the play button below to hear what the end result sounds like during an acceleration run in the Focus ST.



We like what we hear, though we'll wait to see just how it sounds when things like road and wind noise are factored in during the overall driving experience. Scroll down for Ford's official press blast.

Continue reading This is what the 2013 Ford Focus ST sounds like [w/audio]

This is what the 2013 Ford Focus ST sounds like [w/audio] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus staudioengineexhaustfocusfocus stfordford focusford focus stsound symposerMon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/this-is-what-the-2013-ford-focus-st-sounds-like-w-audio/20237726/article-detail.xml 20237726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-ford-focus-st-naspec_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-ford-focus-st-naspec.jpg <![CDATA[Homemade nine-cylinder radial engine is beautiful, short-lived]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/homemade-nine-cylinder-radial-engine-is-beautiful-short-lived/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/homemade-nine-cylinder-radial-engine-is-beautiful-short-lived/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/homemade-nine-cylinder-radial-engine-is-beautiful-short-lived/#commentsFiled under:

Homemade Radial Engine

Russell Sutton is a man after our own heart. The craftsman has spent the last four years building a nine-cylinder radial engine using a smattering of Honda XR600 singles for his airboat. After a little trial and error, Sutton discovered his creation is happier running off of liquid propane gas instead of gasoline. Years of hard work finally paid off when he recently started his monster creation for the first time. The elegant radial fires with a puff of smoke before before settling into a perfect hum. Unfortunately, the success is quickly marred by the sound of mechanical failure.

As it turns out, the cast piston sleeves Sutton used in his creation can't withstand the abuse of the radial. In addition, some of the pistons required shaving in order to work with the different stroke. Unfortunately, the shaving caused the pistons to delaminate their crown, causing further trouble. Despite the issues, Sutton seems to take the failure in stride and plans to correct the issues before firing up the engine one more time. We could all learn a thing or two from his resilience. Scroll down to check out a few videos of the engine. If you want to skip ahead, check out the second video around the 2:30 mark.

Continue reading Homemade nine-cylinder radial engine is beautiful, short-lived

Homemade nine-cylinder radial engine is beautiful, short-lived originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 May 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginenine-cylinderradialvideoMon, 07 May 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20232846/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/07/homemade-nine-cylinder-radial-engine-is-beautiful-short-lived/20232846/article-detail.xml 20232846 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/homemade-radial-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/homemade-radial-628.jpg <![CDATA[BMW partnering with Hyundai on engine cost-sharing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/04/bmw-partnering-with-hyundai-on-engine-cost-sharing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/04/bmw-partnering-with-hyundai-on-engine-cost-sharing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/04/bmw-partnering-with-hyundai-on-engine-cost-sharing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW Emblem

Automotive News reports BMW and Hyundai are currently engaged in talks that may lead to the two companies partnering on engine development. A German industry newsletter reported that Hyundai Chairman Chung Mong-koo's son, Chugn Eui-sun, recently met with a small group of BMW executives in Munich, and that the move would likely help the two manufacturers offset the heavy costs of engineering a new engine group. That cost can be as much as $1.3 to $2.6 billion.

Not surprisingly, BMW refused to comment on the rumored deal, though the company has been quick to dismiss any notion of expanding its corporate partners beyond the current group. Right now, BMW works with PSA/Peugeot-Citroen, Toyota and Daimler, though the manufacturer is also currently in talks with General Motors. Even so, BMW has made no secret of the fact that it is currently hard at work on a new engine architecture, and a corporate partner would be a smart way to spread development costs.

BMW partnering with Hyundai on engine cost-sharing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 May 2012 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw hyundai manufacturing partnershipbmw hyundai partnershipengineengine developmentengineshyundaipartnershipFri, 04 May 2012 09:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20230790/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/04/bmw-partnering-with-hyundai-on-engine-cost-sharing/20230790/article-detail.xml 20230790 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Opel to debut engines developed with SAIC at the Paris Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The resurrected Opel/Vauxhall Junior is expected to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this year with a three-cylinder engine tucked in its engine bay. That motor will be a joint product of General Motors and its Chinese partner SAIC and the heart of Opel and Vauxhall's gas-powered, small-capacity engine family.

Both three- and four-cylinder engines are on the way ranging from 1.0 to 1.4 liters. The Junior is predicted to get a three-cylinder, but Opel hasn't confirmed that or even if the Junior will be the first car to get one of the co-developed motors. Automotive News reports that the engines have "direct injection and turbocharging capability," but with double-digit gains in fuel economy and torque out of the box, those features might not appear immediately.

Above that, there will be 1.6-liter diesel and gas engines to replace current units, perhaps like the 1.4-liter in the Opel Insignia. GM says those engines will come to the U.S. "within two years."

The three-door Junior will be smaller than the Opel Agila (pictured), a challenge to the Mini Cooper and Audi A1. An electric version is a possibility for 2015.

Opel to debut engines developed with SAIC at the Paris Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginegeneral motorsgmopel juniorparisparis 2012paris motor showsaicvauxhall juniorTue, 27 Mar 2012 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20200517/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/20200517/article-detail.xml 20200517 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/opeljuniorengine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/opeljuniorengine.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Ward's</i> releases annual 10 Best Engines list]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/wards-releases-annual-10-best-engines-list/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/wards-releases-annual-10-best-engines-list/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/wards-releases-annual-10-best-engines-list/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 engine

It's that time of year, folks. No, we're not referring to the oodles of time spent shopping for the holidays, we're talking about end-of-the-year lists. Kicking things off in the automotive spectrum is industry stalwart Ward's Auto, which has just released its annual 10 Best Engines list.

Without further ado, here are the award-winners for 2012:
It comes as little surprise that seven of the ten engines on the list feature the most recent advance in power and efficiency, namely direct injection, or that a full half of them are boosted with the addition of either a supercharger or a turbocharger. Perhaps more surprising is that there's only one hybrid powertrain on the list, and it's from Infiniti, not Toyota or Lexus.

In fact, there isn't a single engine from Honda or Toyota on 2011's edition of the 10 Best Engines, nor are the 1.4-liter/111kW electric motor package in the Chevrolet Volt or 80kW AC motor in the Nissan Leaf anywhere to be found - both of which were on the list in 2010. Also missing? A diesel... any diesel - and there certainly are a few options from the likes of Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen from which to choose.

Though its neither direct-injected nor turbocharged, the Pentastar V6 from Chrysler is surely worthy of inclusion, if for no other reason than its single-handed ability to transform any vehicle it's in from an also-ran to a competitive proposition.

We'll also give a shout-out to Ford, which earned two spots on the list but could seemingly have garnered another for the excellent 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine in the F-150 pickup. Ward's has plenty of commentary on why each engine was chosen, and you can read all about it right here. But first, have a look at each powerplant in our high-res image gallery.

Ward's releases annual 10 Best Engines list originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best engines3 series3005 seriesa6accentdirect injectionecoboostedgeenginemm35hmazda3mustangmustang boss 302pentastarregalsoulwardswards 10 best engineswards autowranglerz4Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20123767/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/08/wards-releases-annual-10-best-engines-list/20123767/article-detail.xml 20123767 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-ford-mustang-boss-302-engine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2012-ford-mustang-boss-302-engine.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT 86 lets new boxer engine rev in latest vid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

toyota gt 86

Toyota is an auto sales juggernaut, but when it comes to sports cars, the Japanese automaker tends to come up exceptionally short. That should change with the introduction of the Toyota GT 86 in Europe and Scion FR-S in North America, both of which promise rear-drive fun and a reasonable price tag. So far we've seen the 86 in person and we've snapped plenty of pics, but we haven't had the chance to hear the 2.0-liter boxer engine rev.

That changes all changes thanks to a three-minute video that is big on CGI and funky techno music. Hit the jump to watch the animated 86 in action. You'll see the boxer four assembled out of mid air, wrapped in 86 sheet metal and driven to the virtual limit. The video is very Forza meets Gran Turismo and the music a bit overpowering, but the sound of the new boxer engine makes it a must-watch.

Continue reading Toyota GT 86 lets new boxer engine rev in latest vid

Toyota GT 86 lets new boxer engine rev in latest vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s86boxer fourcoupeenginefr-sgtgt 86sciontoyotavideoThu, 01 Dec 2011 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20118103/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/20118103/article-detail.xml 20118103 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/toyota-86-boxer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/toyota-86-boxer.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz working on straight-six engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/mercedes-benz-working-on-straight-six-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/mercedes-benz-working-on-straight-six-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/mercedes-benz-working-on-straight-six-engines/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mercedes-Benz engine cover

Mercedes-Benz is mulling a range of new engine configurations, according to CAR Magazine, including a new straight six. The news comes courtesy of an unnamed engineer who also said that the German automaker is currently planning a range of smaller-displacement, forced-induction V8 engines, as well as a larger selection of four-cylinder options.

The company's larger vehicles will subsist on straight-six power moving forward, if the report turns out to be accurate. Buyers will conceivably be able to choose between single- and twin-turbocharged configurations depending on their power demands.

The report doesn't mention exactly when we can expect to see these new engines in production vehicles, and with no specifics on application, displacement, fuel economy or horsepower, we have to imagine that the program is in its infancy at this point.

Mercedes-Benz working on straight-six engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginemercedes-benzmercedes-benz enginemercedes-benz straight sixstraight sixTue, 25 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20089995/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/25/mercedes-benz-working-on-straight-six-engines/20089995/article-detail.xml 20089995 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mercedes-benz-engine-cover_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mercedes-benz-engine-cover.jpg <![CDATA[Grand Prix promoters threaten switch to Indy, Ecclestone to sue over new F1 engines?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/grand-prix-promoters-threaten-switch-to-indy-ecclestone-to-sue/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/grand-prix-promoters-threaten-switch-to-indy-ecclestone-to-sue/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/grand-prix-promoters-threaten-switch-to-indy-ecclestone-to-sue/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bernie Ecclestone

The world of Formula One racing is being torn in two. On one side are forces like Renault and the FIA who want to see F1 moving towards more environmentally conscious means of propulsion. On the other are parties like Ferrari, the race promoters and Bernie Ecclestone that are more concerned about abandoning the elements that make grands prix the spectacle that they are.

The FIA recently approved a new engine formula that will see the sport switching from its current V8 engines to V6 turbos, which will also cut the rev limiter from 18,000 rpm down to 15,000. As a result, the commercial side of the sport is growing concerned that the screeching noise that has become associated with F1 racing will mean lower ticket sales. And ticket sales are the only way for local racers promoters to raise the millions demanded by Bernie Ecclestone for the right to host a grand prix.

In fact, according to ESPN, some of the race promoters are threatening to jump ship and hold IndyCar racers instead. With the series once again reunited and new engine suppliers expected to move in, Indy is hoping it can retake its place as the next viable alternative to F1.

For his part, Ecclestone can hardly blame them, and says that if the new engine regulations result in a drop in ticket sales, he could hardly hold the race promoters at fault. So what recourse would he have? Sue the FIA for loss of revenue. At this point, it could prove little more than saber-rattling - particularly since this isn't the first time the sport has gone with turbocharged V6 engines - but then again, F1 is a bigger spectacle these days than it was in the past.

Grand Prix promoters threaten switch to Indy, Ecclestone to sue over new F1 engines? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecclestoneengineenginesf1fiaformula 1formula onerace promotersregulationsWed, 06 Jul 2011 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19982757/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/06/grand-prix-promoters-threaten-switch-to-indy-ecclestone-to-sue/19982757/article-detail.xml 19982757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ecclestone-fingerwagging_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/ecclestone-fingerwagging.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Aston Martin mulling return to straight-six engines?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/25/report-aston-martin-mulling-return-to-straight-six-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/25/report-aston-martin-mulling-return-to-straight-six-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/25/report-aston-martin-mulling-return-to-straight-six-engines/#commentsFiled under: ,

Aston Martin logo

Aston Martin boss Dr. Ulrich Bez let the cat out of the bag this week, revealing that the automaker is seriously contemplating bringing back the straight-six engine. Up through the most recent DB7, Aston's silky inline-sixes defined the brand.

According to Bez, if Aston decides to go back to its old standby, the engine would likely be a 2.5-liter unit sporting direct injection and a turbocharger. Dr. Bez's thoughts have turned to engines since Aston's universal VH platform won't need updating for a few more years. According to Bez, getting a six-pot in the current architecture won't be an issue, since V12s already slide in nicely.

We wouldn't look for a six-cylinder Aston for at least another five years, but the idea of a turbocharged, six-cylinder Vantage-style baby Aston does pique our interest.

[Source: Piston Heads | Image: Drew Phillips/AOL]

Report: Aston Martin mulling return to straight-six engines? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinenginestraight-sixFri, 25 Feb 2011 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19859074/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/25/report-aston-martin-mulling-return-to-straight-six-engines/19859074/article-detail.xml 19859074 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/27-2011-aston-martin-v12-vantage_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/27-2011-aston-martin-v12-vantage.jpg <![CDATA[Four-cylinder engines power 65.4% of cars built in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/02/four-cylinder-engines-power-65-4-of-cars-built-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/02/four-cylinder-engines-power-65-4-of-cars-built-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/02/four-cylinder-engines-power-65-4-of-cars-built-in-2010/#commentsFiled under:

four-cylinder engine

Back in 2008, soaring gas prices sent car buyers in search of efficient four-cylinder vehicles and, as the numbers show, sales of V6 and V8 engines dropped from 63.9 percent to 57.1 percent when gas prices spiked. Though elevated fuel costs may have triggered the increased demand for four-cylinder power a few years ago, the numbers show that the four-banger's rise to dominance continues.

According to data posted by Ward's Auto, the V8 engine powered a mere 20.8 percent of the total North American light-vehicle output in 2010, down from the 22.8 percent in 2009. In contrast, the four-cylinder engine powered 64.5 percent of all cars built in 2010, an increase from the 61.9 percent in 2009. Ward's chalks up the rising popularity of the once-lowly four-banger to technical improvements, such as direct injection, turbocharging and variable valve timing systems, that have transformed some four-cylinder engines into potent mills that consume significantly less fuel than many V6 and V8 engines.

[Source: Ward's Auto - sub. req.]

Four-cylinder engines power 65.4% of cars built in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enginefour cylinderfour cylinder enginefour potfuel efficient carsfuel efficient engineinline fourv6v8Wed, 02 Feb 2011 10:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19825244/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/02/four-cylinder-engines-power-65-4-of-cars-built-in-2010/19825244/article-detail.xml 19825244 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/sonata-2.0-engineshot2-1274377749_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/sonata-2.0-engineshot2-1274377749.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini reveals all-new 6.5L V12 engine and ISR gearbox]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lamborghini 6.5-liter V12
Lamborghini's new V12 and ISR transmission - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ever since the introduction of the 350 GT in 1964, every twelve-cylinder Lamborghini has used a derivative of the same engine, straight through the Miura, Espada, Countach, LM002, Diablo, Murciélago and Reventón. Now, the Italian automaker is throwing that old design in the trash bin and starting fresh with a clean-sheet design. And what a design.

Destined for duty in the upcoming Murcielago successor, this 6.5-liter V12 is an all-new engine - designed, developed and produced entirely in-house at the company's Sant'Agata Bolognese factory. It features four-valve cylinder heads made from an aluminum-silicon alloy, short stroke and lightweight construction to deliver an output of 700 horsepower and 509 pound-feet of torque.

Along with the new engine, Lamborghini introduces a new type of gearbox called the Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) transmission. Employing dual shifting rods, the ISR is said to be able to shift nearly 50 percent faster than a comparable dual-clutch gearbox, while weighing considerably less. Follow the jump for the full details in the official press release and check out the images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Lamborghini's new V12 and ISR transmission


[Source: Lamborghini]

Continue reading Lamborghini reveals all-new 6.5L V12 engine and ISR gearbox

Lamborghini reveals all-new 6.5L V12 engine and ISR gearbox originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>engineindependent shifting rodisrisr gearboxisr transmissionlamborghinilamborghini isrlamborghini new v12lamborghini v12v12Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19716709/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/15/lamborghini-reveals-all-new-6-5l-v12-engine-and-isr-gearbox/19716709/article-detail.xml 19716709 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-lamborghininewv12powertrain5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-lamborghininewv12powertrain5.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru debuts third-generation boxer four-cylinder engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/subaru-debuts-third-generation-boxer-four-cylinder-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/subaru-debuts-third-generation-boxer-four-cylinder-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/subaru-debuts-third-generation-boxer-four-cylinder-engine/#commentsFiled under: ,

Subaru's Third-Generation Boxer Engine - Click above for high-res image

Boxer lovers, the next chapter in your love affair has just begun. Fuji Heavy Industries, parent company of Subaru, has introduced the latest, third-generation boxer engine that will relieve the second-gen after 21 years of service. This is a brand new lump, not a rework, and FHI has built a factory just to produce it.

The bore and stroke have been increased, and it will be available with four cylinders in 2.0- and 2.5-liter displacements. The intake ports have been redesigned, lighter pistons and connecting rods offer reduced internal friction, and separate cooling circuitry for the block and the head are some of the changes that have resulted in a lower emissions and a ten percent increase in fuel efficiency. No power figures are being quoted yet, so we'll have to see how it measures up when it finds its way into production engine bays.

This new boxer will be Subaru's primary engine, and will first be seen in the Forester. Follow the jump for the press release, and you can have a closer look at it the high-res image below.


[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading Subaru debuts third-generation boxer four-cylinder engine

Subaru debuts third-generation boxer four-cylinder engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxerboxer engineengineflat fourflat-fourforesterfuji heavy industrieshorizontally opposedHorizontallyOpposedsubarusubaru boxersubaru foresterSubaruBoxerThu, 23 Sep 2010 11:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19645756/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/23/subaru-debuts-third-generation-boxer-four-cylinder-engine/19645756/article-detail.xml 19645756 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/subaru3rd-genbox_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/subaru3rd-genbox.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Bentley experimented with diesels, but poor salability means they won't be built]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/15/report-bentley-experimented-with-diesels-but-poor-salability-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/15/report-bentley-experimented-with-diesels-but-poor-salability-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/15/report-bentley-experimented-with-diesels-but-poor-salability-m/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The words "diesel" and "Bentley" have flirted for some years now, but it never gets beyond that initial stage. Bentley isn't against oil burners, but its customers in the U.S. and Japan aren't ready to connect the two, and that makes the issue a non-starter. Not only that, but Bentley CEO Franz-Josef Paefgen has reportedly said that, "the attitude of Chinese buyers is going to have a big effect on cars like ours in future, too, and they are none too keen [about diesels]."

The company's head of powertrain also believes, ominously, that "the forthcoming Euro 6 clean-air regs are likely to pile some big costs on to diesels." With a diesel's big selling points being massive torque and fuel economy, it's perhaps clear why Bentley is out of the running: its engines are already torque monsters, and its buyers care more about the time they have to spend filling up instead of the price.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Bentley experimented with diesels, but poor salability means they won't be built originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentley dieselBentleyDieseldiesel bentleyDieselBentleyengineWed, 15 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19632464/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/15/report-bentley-experimented-with-diesels-but-poor-salability-m/19632464/article-detail.xml 19632464 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/bentleynodiesel_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/bentleynodiesel.jpg -1 2