Hyundai reveals new powertrain for hybrid models

Hyundai’s new 1.6 litre GDI petrol engine and eight-speed automatic gearbox have been developed to offer enhanced fuel efficiency. The company plans to use this powertrain combination for its hybrid models

Hyundai has revealed a new 1.6 litre direct injection petrol engine alongside a new eight-speed automatic gearbox that are aimed at future hybrid models from the Korean car maker. The unveiling took place at the company’s annual International Powertrain Conference.

The new 1.6 litre GDI Kappa petrol engine works on the principle of the Atkinson cycle that is tuned to reduce pumping losses owing to its late intake valve closing time and increasing the expansion ratio for bettering fuel efficiency. An oil control valve (OCT) integrated with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) has been designed to simplify oil flow. The CVVT phasing angle is extended for faster CVVT response.

Fuel efficiency is also improved by splitting the thermostat temperature for the block at 105?C and head at 88?C of the engine. The cylinder block heats up quickly for operating with less friction while the head operates at a slightly lower temperature to suppress knock tendency.

The engine also has an exhaust gas recirculation system to circulate exhaust gases back into the cylinder to improve fuel efficiency by 3 per cent.

Six-hole laser drilled GDI injectors allow the high pressure fuel supply system to operate at 200 bar to ensure clean combustion and higher fuel efficiency. Thermal efficiency of the engine is rated at 40 per cent as compared to 30 per cent for a typical engine.

The new 1.6 GDI Kappa engine from Hyundai is capable of developing 105PS of max power and 147Nm of max torque.

The new eight-speed gearbox also contributes significantly in improving fuel efficiency by 7.3 per cent as compared to the company’s six-speed automatic transmission. NVH levels are also said to be lower while the unit is lighter in weight by 3.5 kg in comparison. Operating efficiency has been improved to result in overall efficiency by reducing friction.

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