V-8 Kompressor

V-8 Kompressor

The push by governments around the world for stricter emissions regulations for new cars has all automakers, from mainstream makes like Toyota and GM all the way up to exclusive brands like Mercedes-Benz and even Ferrari working on new methods to clean up their act.

One trend we’ve already started to see is the downsizing of engines. Both Ford and GM, for example, are starting to place less emphasis on their big V-8 engines in favor of more economical V-6 units, and this trend is being repeated at BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Mercedes-Benz is developing new technologies to boost the output of its compact four-cylinder engine range--the Diesotto being one of the most exciting prospects. However, before then we’ll start to see simpler technologies like turbocharging and direct-injection filter across the entire Mercedes-Benz lineup.

Speaking with Edmunds, Mercedes-Benz R&D exec Dr. Thomas Weber revealed that a new family of engines will emerge from Mercedes-Benz starting late next year that will rely heavily on turbocharging and direct injection to deliver gains in power, efficiency and CO2 reduction.

Labeled “MoVe” for modular V-6 and V-8s, the engines will first appear in new versions of the CLS, facelifted R-Class and S-Class Coupe (renamed CL Coupe).

Weber revealed that all V-8 engines will be turbocharged by the 2011 model year. This includes the current 6.2-liter AMG unit, which will be replaced by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo version with direct injection. Non-AMG models will get smaller V-8 engines as well as turbocharged V-6 units. Importantly, most will be designed to integrate with hybrid drive systems.

[Edmunds]

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