Toyota Valvematic pushes fuel-efficiency higher

After VVT-i comes Valvematic, a new variable valve lift mechanism developed by Toyota which is claimed to improve petrol engine efficiency by 5% ~ 15%. The new mechanism, announced in Japan yesterday, combines VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), which continuously controls intake valve opening/closing timing, with a new mechanism that continuously controls the intake valve lift volume.

While conventional engines control air intake using a throttle valve, Valvematic (the name is derived from 'valvetrain' and '-matic') adjusts the volume of air taken in by continuously controlling the intake valve lift volume and timing of valve opening and closing. This ensures optimal performance based on the engine's operational condition, thus helping vehicles achieve both high fuel efficiency and dynamic performance.

In the case of a new 2.0-litre engine developed by Toyota, Valvematic is said to improve fuel efficiency by 5% to 10% (depending on driving conditions), reduce CO2 emissions, boost output by at least 10% and enhance acceleration responsiveness. Toyota plans to introduce Valvematic shortly in a new model.

Toyota regards global environmental preservation and initiatives toward energy diversification as a priority management issue in terms of its corporate social responsibility. As a part of its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions through high fuel efficiency and to achieve cleaner exhaust emissions, the company plans to completely revamp its petrol engine and transmission lineup by 2010.