Toyota Unveils Revolutionary Combustion Engine Technology
Toyota is making a bold claim: their upcoming four-cylinder internal combustion engines (ICEs) are set to redefine the industry. According to comments made by Chief Technology Officer Hiroki Nakajima, the new engines represent a potentially “game-changer solution.” These new engines are intended to be “completely different” from the current generation of ICEs.
Speaking with Automotive News, Nakajima provided insights into the innovative design and approach behind these new powerplants. While specific details on thermal efficiency were not revealed, Toyota’s engineers have been focusing on maximizing the heat efficiency of the engines, drawing on lessons learned from the development of the hydrogen-powered Mirai. The company previously achieved a 40% thermal efficiency rate several years ago.
One key feature of the new engines is a shorter piston stroke, which Nakajima described as “a very difficult task” to achieve. The new inline-four engines will also be more compact, with the goal of “revolutionizing vehicle packaging.” This design will enable lower front ends, improving airflow and efficiency.
To compensate for any potential torque loss resulting from the design changes, the new engines are primarily being developed for use in hybrid vehicles, capitalizing on the instant response and power of electric motors.
Anticipated for a 2027 release, Toyota is building flexibility into the design of these new powerplants, with the intention that they can utilize a range of fuels. Alongside fossil fuels, the engines are designed to run on biofuels, hydrogen, and synthetic fuels. Nakajima hinted at further engineering innovations, stating that this new engine family “has lots of room to play.”
While Toyota is investing in advanced combustion technology, other automakers are taking different routes. Nissan, for instance, has stopped its internal combustion engine development, placing its focus on EVs, with range-extending gas engines serving as a temporary solution.
