Renault introduces 1.6-liter Twin Turbo diesel engine; leveraging F1 learnings
20 February 2014
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| Energy dCi 160 Twin Turbo will be applied in D- and E- segment models. Click to enlarge. |
Leveraging work done for its F1 engine program (earlier post), Renault has introduced the Energy dCi 160 Twin Turbo, its first 1.6-liter diesel engine with twin-turbocharging. The 1,598cc block delivers 160 hp (119 kW) and 380 N·m (280 lb-ft) of torque, putting it into the realm of 2-liter engines in terms of performance; fuel consumption and CO2 emissions savings are approximately 25%.
The use of Twin Turbo technology enables a blend of low-end torque and high power at higher revs. The system comprises two sequential turbo-compressors:
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| Power and torque curves. Click to enlarge. |
The first is a very low inertia turbo which provides high low-end torque for pull-away and mid-range acceleration. To guarantee pick-up response at low revs and incisive acceleration, 90% of peak torque is available from 1,500 rpm.
The second turbo takes over at the higher-end and produces high power (100 hp per liter) at faster engine speeds to ensure smooth, linear, dependable acceleration right the way up to maximum revs.
Experience with turbochargers is not the only link between the 1.6-liter Renault Energy F1 Power Unit and the Energy dCi 160 Twin Turbo. The new production engine takes advantage of a number of technologies borne out of Renault’s know-how in F1, notably in terms of cooling and friction reduction:
The transverse water flow system permits faster and more efficient cooling of the combustion chamber.
U-section U-Flex piston rings adapt to changes in the form of the cylinder walls resulting from fluctuations in temperature and pressure to yield the optimum compromise between efficiency and friction.
DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) super-finishing of the cam followers also reduces friction.
The fuel injection system of the Energy dCi 160 Twin Turbo operates at a pressure of 1,800 bar to function with the twin turbocharger. It complies with Euro 6b emissions legislation and incorporates a NOx Trap and particulate filter regeneration system.
By dint of its efficiency, this engine is capable of powering larger vehicles, and will be available for Renault’s forthcoming D- and E-segment models.
Another great Renault diesel.
It will be interesting to see how much it adds to the costs of the cars it is in, and how much it reduces the CO2 and fuel consumption for larger cars (Laguna / Espace) and also the Nissan cars it will be used in.
Posted by: mahonj | 20 February 2014 at 08:39 AM
Finally!
Finally a manufacturer starts to deploy some of the technology that has already been in use for some time on larger diesel engines (e.g. 2-liter engines). Another way of looking at it would be to say: downsizing. Twin turbo also ensures good driveability. Hardly surprising, the improvement of fuel economy is impressive!
Posted by: Peter_XX | 20 February 2014 at 11:21 AM
Of course, it has nothing to do with F1 engines. That is pure sales talk.
Posted by: Peter_XX | 20 February 2014 at 11:22 AM