Camless Engine Closer to Reality
Koenigsegg sister company FreeValve, along with partner Qoros, unveiled a working prototype at the 2016 Guangzhou auto show. The prototype is a followup to the concept Qoros unveiled earlier this year detailing just the motor. Now we have it fitted into a production vehicle.
The Qamfree camless engine uses pneumatic valve actuators to open the engine’s valves. The valves are then then closed by air pressure or springs. The benefit of this system is practically infinite adjustment to the traditional lift and duration parameters without new camshafts or any mechanical work. Simply reprogram the pulse duration and force applied to alter the valve opening and timing..
According to FreeValve the benefits are increased power and torque. Squeezing more power per cubic inch allows the use of smaller engines giving in increase in fuel economy. Engines would no longer need parts like the throttle body, camshaft, cam drive, timing gear and cover, wastegate, pre-catalytic converter systems and direct injection systems. With these parts no longer needed you have less parasitic loss, a smaller overall engine size for the displacement, and simpler maintenance.
Qoros’ show prototype is the automaker’s 3 compact hatchback featuring a turbocharged 1.6-liter camless engine. Claimed output is 230 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque.
This is the first driveable version of FreeValve’s camless engine that has been designed with mass production and shown to the public. Fleet testing of the prototype with an eye to getting this system into production is next on Qoros and FreeValve’s schedule. No timeline has been given for testing, or release of a production version.
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