Platinum
Enthusiast
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The concept of "variable displacement" engines, where some cylinders are deactivated during drivng, was pioneered by Cadillac in 1981. I'm not that knowledgeable about cars, but I understand it was an automotive disaster. Here's an article from a hot-rodding magazine describing "The worst auto engines of all time." Excerpt: quote: In 1981, engineers at Cadillac made an attempt at producing better gas mileage for its line of heavy luxo-liners. Dubbed the V8-6-4 (or, Displacement On Demand), the engine changed cylinder modes, eliminating two cylinders at a time as power demands decreased. The idea was right on the money, but the available technology to implement it was not. Measuring 368 cubic inches, oil pressure to specially-designed hydraulic lifters was shut off by solenoids, which caused the lifter to collapse, and effectively prevented the cam lobe from opening the related valve. The biggest rap with the V8-6-4 was a distinct hesitation when cylinders were deactivated, which commonly became known as a "driveability" problem.
Hopefully the new Chevy has improved the technology, perhaps with better computer control. |
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Platinum
Enthusiast
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The new engine you're talking about is referred to as "Displacement on Demand" technology, described in this article from something called SuperChevy magazine. Apparently it works better than its predecessor of 25 years ago, described in my earlier post. They claim about an 8 percent increase in fuel efficiency, which doesn't sound all that impressive to me. Anyone have an expert opinion? |
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