September 29, 2008
GM's 'Boost' in Efficient Four-Cylinders Includes More Turbos
FLINT, MI– GM will double its global production of small four-cylinder engines (1.0L to 1.4L) by 2011, with more than half of the increase coming in North America, according to the company. The strategy is highlighted by an all-new, 1.4L Turbo engine that will power the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
The Cruze is expected to be a fuel economy leader in its segment when it launches in mid-2010, and its new engine reinforces GM's commitment to replacing larger-displacement engines with more compact, advanced four-cylinder engines that optimize performance and fuel savings.
One-third of GM's North American engine volume will be four-cylinders by 2011, and 21 percent of the four-cylinder volume will be turbocharged — a seven-fold increase over today's volume of turbo engines.
"Power-dense four-cylinders such as the 1.4L Turbo are an integral part of GM's portfolio of advanced propulsion technologies, including cam phasing, direct injection, Active Fuel Management, clean diesels, hybrids, flex-fuel vehicles, six-speed transmissions and electric propulsion," said Tom Stephens, executive vice president, GM Global Powertrain and Global Quality. "GM is focused on delivering vehicles that look great, are fuel efficient, and fun to drive."
The Chevy Cruze will be built for worldwide distribution at GM's Lordstown, Ohio, facility. It will be offered with the 1.4L Turbo in North America, along with additional small-displacement engines for models sold outside of North America.
A non-turbocharged 1.4L variant will serve as a secondary energy source for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle. For trips up to 40 miles, the Volt's primary source of power comes from its lithium-ion battery. When the battery's energy is depleted, the 1.4L engine activates, generating electricity to power the Volt for several hundred additional miles until its battery is recharged.