The energy in the fuel is better utilized when the compression ratio is as high as possible. However, if the compression ratio is too high, the fuel will pre-ignite and cause "knocking," which could damage the engine. Due to its variable compression ratio, the SVC engine can be run at the optimum compression ratio of 14:1 at low load in order to maximize the use of the energy in the fuel. The compression ratio can then be lowered to 8:1 at high load to enable the engine performance to be increased by supercharging without causing engine "knock."
The SVC engine concept reduces fuel consumption by up to 30 percent when compared to a larger conventional naturally aspirated engine of similar power output. It also provides the tremendous power output of 140 Ib.-ft. of torque and 150 horsepower per liter of engine displacement.
Engine displacement 1.598 liter Number of cylinders 5 Cylinder bore 68 mm Piston stroke 88 mm Compression ratio 8:1 to 14:1, depending on engine load Max. compressor boost pressure 2.8 bar (40 psi) Max. monohead tilt angle 4 degrees Maximum torque 224 Ib.-ft. Maximum horsepower 225 hp