Test drive MultiAir reduces fuel consumption by 25%

Fiat has unveiled a technology that, through selective valve control on each cylinder, reduces fuel consumption and emissions by up to 25%. Its premiere is due this year at the Alfa Mito.

This technology eliminates the conventional intake camshaft in vehicles with four valves per cylinder. It is replaced by an electro-hydraulic valve actuator.

25% less consumption and 10% more power

The advantage is that the suction valves are operated independently of the crankshaft. In the MultiAir system, the suction valves can be opened and closed at any time. Thus, the filling of the cylinder can be adjusted at any time to the load of the unit. This allows the engine to operate at optimum efficiency in any situation.

In addition to significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, Fiat also promises a 15% increase in torque in the low rpm range, as well as particularly fast engine response. According to the company, the increase in capacity reaches 10%. In addition, in the case of a cold engine, nitrous oxide emissions must be reduced by up to 60%, and especially harmful carbon monoxide by 40%.

Fiat intends to use MultiAir technology in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines. In addition, diesel engines should also benefit from this.

MultiAir debuts in the Alfa Romeo Mito

The new Alfa Romeo Mito will be equipped with MultiAir technology in the middle of this year. It will be available with a 1,4-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine and a turbocharged version. In addition, Fiat has announced an all-new 900cc two-cylinder petrol engine. See with MultiAir technology.

The engine will be adapted to run on gasoline and natural gas (CNG), and will also be produced in atmospheric and turbo versions. According to the concern, its CO2 emissions will be below 80 grams per kilometer.

Diesel engines will also be equipped with the MultiAir system.

Fiat plans to use MultiAir technology in its diesel engines in the future. They will also significantly reduce emissions by effectively controlling and regenerating the particulate filter.

Text: Vladimir Kolev

2020-08-30