Atkinson cycle engine and Otto cycle engine

[GoodCar]

 

The latest trend on commercial engine design seems to be going in these two direction

 

- Improve the efficiency of Otto cycle engine using supercharger and turbocharger

there by achieving better fuel efficiency and satisfy consumer quest for more power and torque.

 

e,g 1.4L TSI engine. (VW, Audi , Skoda)

 

Now manufacturer can put a small engine into a big car body without sacrifiying Torque/power.

 

- With Variable v/v timing Technology, Atkinson cycle can be achieve on present engine by shortening the compression stroke and increase

the expansion strok. this increase the efficiency of the engine but at the expense of power.

 

e.g Engine for hybrid car like Prius, I also suspect car like Allion use Atkinson cycle when it auto switch to eco mode during cruise.

 

 

Anyone care to give your opinion on the following

 

- Which type of technology do you prefer?

- Any other things that you want to share on this topic.

 

 

[GoodCar]

Any expert out there?