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Today, there is a trend towards more advanced camshaft based valve trains, where BMW is leading the development with the Valvetronic system. BMW stated, when introducing this system, that it is an intermediate solution, waiting for a solution giving full control over valve timing and lift.
Engine manufacturers have been studying electromagnetic valve actuators but have encountered fundamental problems in noise, packaging and power density. Other vendors have worked with hydraulic solutions with better technical results but with serious issues regarding cost, packaging, high engine speed, energy consumption and low temperature oil viscosity. The Cargine Free Valve Technology system has the potential to become competitive in every aspect, including cost, compared to the above alternatives, and has the potential to get a big market share. |
This technology is well suited to be introduced as an performance increasing technology, with the side effect of fuel savings and emission reduction, because initially the cost for this system will be higher that conventional systems. For premium, high performance cars people are willing to pay considerable money for increased performance, and it is easier to introduce new technology in cars produced in smaller quantities.
Consequently, Cargine has a cooperation with the Swedish supercar manufacturer Koenigsegg to use the Koenigsegg CC as a platform for introduction to the automotive market. At a unit price of more than $600 000 cost is not an issue and at a limited production pace there is time to produce, install and test the systems before delivery. Performance is everything and the customers are interested in new technology. A more attractive and attention-getting platform is hard to find! Cargines marketing goal is to find appropriate licensing partners among the engine manufacturers and their Tier 1 suppliers to make a rapid industrialization of the system. One interesting short term niche is Free Valve Technology systems for laboratory and research engines. Around the world there are many research engines at universities and commercial engine research laboratories who are interested to buy these systems for their own research purpose. |
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Marketing
Valve Control is a key technology in the development in the Internal Combustion Engine, offering the potential to:
• increase performance • reduce fuel consumption • reduce emissions • adapt to different fuels |