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Advanced Vehicle Components Increase Fuel Economy

Several new advanced fuel-efficient component technologies have been making their way into the mainstream automotive market. Among them are continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and engines equipped with cylinder deactivation technology.

Continuously Variable Transmissions
CVTs eliminate the need for traditional transmission gear sets and instead use belt-pulley systems. These systems are capable of providing the optimal drive-ratio at all times during vehicle operation, thereby increasing the efficiency of the vehicle's powertrain. Vehicles equipped with CVTs generally achieve a 4-8% fuel economy improvement over similar vehicles with conventional four-speed automatic transmissions. Several new models from Ford now feature CVT technology - the Ford Freestyle, Ford Five Hundred, and Mercury Montego.

Cylinder Deactivation
Advanced engines with cylinder deactivation are capable of shutting down half of their cylinders during light driving conditions. They are currently available as V-6s and V-8s and can increase fuel-economy by 5-10% over their conventional counterparts. Current vehicles that feature cylinder deactivation as an engine option include the new Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chrysler 300C, Dodge Magnum, Honda Odyssey, and Honda Accord Hybrid. Upcoming vehicles with cylinder deactivation include the Pontiac Grand Prix, Chevy Impala SS and Chevy Monte Carlo SS.

Variable Valve Timing
Advanced engines with variable valve timing continually vary the timing of their intake and/or exhaust valves. This increases the engine's efficiency, improves its performance, reduces its emissions and increases fuel economy by 4 to 8%. Several new engines, including I-4s, V-6s and V-8s utilize this technology. Some current vehicles that feature these engines include the Pontiac Vibe, Chevy Cobalt, Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Camry, and Honda Civic.