The I6 future

[Iphido]

Heres a bit of crystal balling.

The new I6 won't be made out of regular cast iron, or aluminium but compacted graphite iron.This material is approximately 1.5 to 2 times stronger, allowing stronger engines to be constructed with less material (thinner walls), hence saving weight of the order of 50kg. This technology is currently used on several jaguar desiel engines and in the Falcon RTV (rear shock mounting plates). CGI does not require all new processes, however slower feed rates and better tools are required.

Stronger construction will also improve NVH. It also allows the possibility of a Diesel I6 varient.

CGI weight benifits are comparible to Aluminium and other alloys. It would be far easier and cheaper to incorperate it into the existing falcon manufacturing program.

CGI should also get a look in on Falcon suspension components (wishbones etc), improving strength, weight and NVH.

It is quite likely the I6 will shrink in capacity to around 3.5L. For several reasons:
-Economy, smaller engine, less friction, lighter internals, improved economy
-More compact dimentions, improved pedistrian safety by lowering the engine, also improves handling, cooling, NVH,lower weight. It will most likely have a shorter stroke
-Power, currently at 190/245kw, with over 200kw easily obtainable. With the smaller engine these outputs can still be met but with a smaller and lighter engine.

A 4.0L may continue in uppermarket and performance cars, but require Jaguar like explosive bonnet pedestrian systems which is not viable for entry level vechicals (expensive to build, expensive to replace).

New technologies. Direct injection will most likely be required by ever furthering emission laws and fuel economy targets. It should also help in low end performance and in turbo charged applications. EURO IV emissions are expected to be required by about 2008-2010. Athough it is possible to meet it without direct injection, the fuel economy benifits alone are worthy for the technology. This technology will most likely appear on premium or Sport versions with the 4.0L engine.

Injected LPG. LPG will still remain competitive with a more efficent injected LPG system, improving range and performance. However the tank maybe reduced in size to allow more efficent packaging.