EcoMotors’ opoc® engine has a number of distinct advantages over traditional internal combustion engines. The opoc® engine has very high power density of nearly one horsepower per pound resulting in an unprecedented lightweight and compact engine. The opoc® engine is perfectly balanced enabling stackable power modules. This unique modular displacement capability is one of the long standing, but elusive goals of engine engineers’ quest for high efficiency. In addition, it also results in much less NVH than a conventional engine of comparable power. Its elegantly simple design allows for low cost, efficient manufacturing and increased operating durability:

• 50 percent fewer parts than a conventional engine
• Straightforward assembly
• No cylinder heads or valve-train
• Uses conventional components, materials and processes

“Consistent with our leadership strategy, Navistar continues to seek innovative products which differentiate us from the marketplace, while others embrace the status quo,” said Eric Tech, president, Navistar Engine Group.

Power Density

The internal combustion piston engine has been the primary means of automotive propulsion for more than a century. Today, thousands of engineers around the world are hard at work trying to improve this 19th century invention. Some are striving to make incremental gains; some are hoping for a breakthrough. For all of them, one measuring stick is the “acid test” for any engine — power density. As greater power density is achieved, a range of critically important attributes will result, including:

• Lower weight
• Smaller size
• Lower material costs
• Lower friction
• Greater fuel efficiency
• Lower emissions
• Lower heat rejection

Electrically Controlled Turbocharger

EcoMotors’ intellectual property also includes an electrically controlled turbocharger technology which incorporates an electric motor in the turbo assembly to regulate boost pressure resulting in a long list of unique advantages:

• Improved combustion efficiency to meet emissions
• Electrically controlled variable compression ratio
• Improved vehicle fuel economy
• Enhanced vehicle drivability due to improved low-end torque
• Eliminates Turbo lag
• Waste heat recovery by generating electricity

Electrically Controlled Clutch

The development in clutch technology enables customers to take advantage of the engine’s modular displacement capability. The clutch assembly is housed between two engine modules, and is engaged when vehicle power demands require both modules to deliver power. When the power of the second module is not needed, the clutch is disengaged, allowing the second engine to stop completely. This not only improves fuel economy dramatically by reducing parasitic losses, but also improves the efficiency of the primary module.