Research

Published 24 June 2009

A revolutionary low carbon engine, being researched by engineers in the Centre for Automotive Engineering at the University of Brighton, could be ready for demonstrating to major automobile companies by the end of the year.

The research group, based at Brighton's School of Environment and Technology and headed by Professor Morgan Heikal, believe the 2/4 stroke engine could prove a significant step forward in a market which is keen to go greener. The research work is being financed by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) in a collaborative venture with Ricardo UK Ltd, DENSO and Jaguar Land Rover.

A Jaguar XF Saloon has been delivered to the consortium so they can fit it with the innovative technology and test its commercial potential. The highly complex engine, code-named 2/4 SIGHT, was created using advanced computer simulation and proven on the testbed at the University of Brighton. It can dynamically switch from four-stroke to two-stroke and back again, at a constant engine speed, without misfiring, so doubling the engine's work output. This means the engine size can be significantly reduced without losing power and can potentially save up to 30 per cent on carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption.

The engine research work was undertaken in the state-of-the-art facilities at the university's Sir Harry Ricardo Laboratories. Fundamental combustion modelling work was supported by an ESPRC grant involving Brighton, Brunel, Manchester and Leeds universities in collaboration with Ricardo UK Ltd and Innospec Inc. Their research project aims to investigate a new concept of combustion which could lead to a significant reduction in smog-producing nitrogen oxide emissions. Brighton's role in the project centres on the creation of new models of auto-ignition and is led by Dr Elena Sazhina with the involvement of Professor Sergei Sazhin, Professor Heikal, Dr Steven Begg, Mr Nicolas Miché and Dr Renzo Piazzesi.

Professor Morgan Heikal said: "This marks a very significant step towards a greener car industry and we are very pleased that Brighton's work is having such an impact. We are grateful to all our partners and look forward to seeing the results of the tests and to the engine being taken up on a commercial basis around the world."