Toyota develops next-generation engine valve mechanism

Toyota has developed a new form of valve actuation for internal combustion engines which it claims improves fuel efficiency by 5 to 10 per cent, enhances throttle response, reduces CO2 emissions, and boosts power by at least 10 per cent. To be known as Valvematic, the new design offers a variable valve lift mechanism created through combining VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), which controls the timing of intake valve opening/closing, with a new mechanism that can also control the intake valve lift volume. The first application of Valvematic will be in a new 2.0-litre engine being introduced in the near future.

While conventional engines control air intake using a throttle valve, Valvematic adjusts the volume of air taken in by continuously controlling the intake valve lift volume and timing of valve opening and closing. This ensures optimal performance based on the engine’s operational condition, thus helping vehicles achieve both high fuel efficiency and dynamic performance.

Toyota positions global environmental preservation and initiatives toward energy diversification as a priority management issue in terms of its corporate social responsibility. As a part of its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions through high fuel efficiency and to achieve cleaner exhaust emissions, Toyota plans to completely revamp its petrol engine and transmission lineup by 2010.