Tokyo, June 18, 2003 --- Honda
Motor Co., Ltd. today introduced a new V6 engine featuring the
latest version of its i-VTEC ('intelligent' VTEC) technology. Through new 'Variable
Cylinder Management' technology, the V6 3.0-liter i-VTEC engine runs on all six cylinders
during acceleration and when high output is required, yet employs only three cylinders during
cruising and at low engine loads. The new engine thus combines the effortless performance of a
3.0-liter V6 engine, while offering superior fuel economy of 11.6 km/liter*1 --- comparable to
that of a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine*2. This new powertrain will debut in the new Inspire model
scheduled for release in Japan June 19, 2003.
In addition to its low fuel consumption, this V6 3.0-liter i-VTEC engine also significantly
reduces exhaust emissions, helping the Inspire meet Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure,
and Transportation requirements for Ultra-Low Emissions and 2010 fuel consumption
standards, and making it eligible for preferential 'Green Tax' treatment. The new engine
achieves this by combining high-density catalytic converters located directly below each
cylinder head for further improved exhaust gas processing at low engine temperatures with
exceptionally fine air / fuel ratio control.
The adoption of a variable intake system, over-sized intake valves, and low back-pressure
catalytic converters further improve engine respiration efficiency, helping deliver class-leading
performance, with maximum output of 184 kW (250 PS) and maximum torque of 296 N·m
(30.2 kg·m)*3, all on unleaded regular gasoline.
| *1 |
Inspire 10-15-mode fuel consumption, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure,
and Transportation test values |
| *2 |
Vehicle in the same weight class as the Inspire: Accord Sedan 2.4
liter (10-15-mode fuel consumption of 12.0km / liter) |
| *3 |
Inspire model net figures |
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V6 3.0-liter i-VTEC engine
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The 'Variable Cylinder Management' system analyzes throttle opening, vehicle speed, engine
speed, and gearing to determine that the car is cruising, and then idles the intake and exhaust
valves of the three cylinders in the rear cylinder bank. With zero valve lift, the cylinders are
sealed, and no fuel is injected. Pumping losses are thus reduced by as much as 65% and low fuel
consumption is realized.
When operating in 3-cylinder mode, engine vibration is reduced by extrapolating vibration
from the change in crankshaft rotation speed and sending the information to the 'active control'
engine mount, which compresses / extends an actuator in same-phase, same-period motion to
dampen the engine mount. Similarly, a speaker creates an opposite phase sound or 'active noise
control', to provide a canceling effect, for a quieter interior which leaves the driver unaware of
changes in cylinder activation.
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June 18 , 2003 