Last week I wrote about the new iPad and iPhone app for the TwinAir (read here). Now Fiat has just released more details (in English) of this interesting program. A reminder is that this is currently available only in Italian but, by the end of the month, an English version will follow.
No word if the app will be available for the Android or Blackberry market, but we can hope.
Below is the press release on the 500TwinAir app:
In the Apple Store: �500 TwinAir�, the iPad application that introduces you to the most eco-friendly petrol engine in the world
Fiat proves to be keeping pace with new trends in the digital world, launching its first iPad application, dedicated to the two-cylinder TwinAir engine, developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and fitted on the Fiat 500 model (saloon and cabrio).
Available in the future also for iPhone, the new application is free and is currently one of the most innovative in the Apple Store. What�s more, just as the TwinAir engine results from technology �made in Italy�, the �500 TwinAir� application is 100% Italian, developed by an Italian team within the company Applix.
Currently available in Italian (within the end of October, English, French, Spanish and German will follow), the original application�s games and interactive features allow the engine�s innovative characteristics to be discovered: cutting-edge eco-sustainability, savings, performance and technological solutions encased in this gem of automotive technology, the new benchmark for the sector. Suffice it to say that the 85 HP TwinAir is the turbo petrol engine with the lowest emission levels in the world: 92 g/km with Dualogic robotized gearbox and 95 g/km with manual gearbox.
The user is welcomed with a choice of two navigation modes: one more traditional, with a series of tiles for browsing, and one more lively, where the 3D engine itself becomes an interactive menu.
The application can take you through an interactive time line of Fiat�s technological innovations which represent turning points in research related to eco-sustainable performance � from the Fire engine to Common Rail, from MultiJet to the most recent MultiAir � thus allowing you to experience the milestones that have led up to the birth of TwinAir.
A dedicated section allows users to discover important innovations in �eco-supremacy�: from 2007, of Europe�s ten best-selling automotive brands, Fiat Automobiles is the one which has recorded the lowest average value of CO2 emissions for cars sold (in the first half of 2010, 123.5 g/km). This achievement has been recognized by JATO, world leader in consulting and research for the automotive industry.
The �500 TwinAir� application also allows the engine to be examined internally, �taking it apart piece by piece�, while, in the special �Discovery Deck� section, users can find every detail on why this engine is a true technological gem. It also takes a moment to parody �70s videogame Pong, showing how TwinAir � thanks to its winning consumption, emission and performance characteristics � �beats� higher category 4-cylinder engines. An example? When compared with the 100 HP 1.4 engine, the 85 HP TwinAir delivers a torque increase of 25% at 2,000 rpm despite a reduction of 30% in fuel consumption. All this ensures greater satisfaction at the wheel and reduced emissions.
Other games, including a driving simulator that recreates the experience of being at the wheel of your own 500, invite the user to compose messages that explain the advantages of driving a 500 TwinAir. And to top it off, a homage to the sound of this truly unique engine, which recalls the agreeable two-cylinder engine of the 1957 Fiat 500, to the accompaniment of a cult instrument every bit as timeless as the Fiat 500: a 1934 Fender Stratocaster.
Fiat engine technology is coming to the US. It's the concept of "downshifting", achieving the power of a larger engine with a much smaller unit. We've seen this concept of turbocharging a smaller engine to achieve the horsepower of the larger engine before. What is new is the application of MultiAir, the technology that Fiat invented, that boosts torque output, fuel economy, drivability all while lowering emissions.
Previously, these smaller turbocharged engines would make good power when on boost, but suffer from a lack of torque at lower rpm and when off boost, taking away from their drivability and driver enjoyment. MultiAir (which has been described as variable valve timing on steroids) boosts torque and drivability during these periods and truly enable the smaller engine to better match the larger engines drivability.
Fiat 500 TwinAir: The application for iPhone and iPad that reveals the most environmentally-friendly patrol engine in the world. Have fun with its playful tracks such as PlayTwin, a game of a real skill behind the wheels of the 500.
With the TwinAir, Fiat has taken this concept to the extreme. The TwinAir is a twin cylinder 85 hp, 875cc engine that puts out 25% more horsepower than the 69hp, 1.2 liter 4 cylinder engine that is standard in the European Fiat 500. But what is even more impressive is that the TwinAir matches the performance of the 100hp, 1.4 liter 16v engine and even outproduces the larger engines torque at 2000rpm.
And that's not all, there will be a 105hp version of the TwinAir that really promises to turn the world upside down in terms of what is thought of engines with less than four cylinders.
Will the TwinAir come to the US? Well, that awaits to be seen, but we will see MultiAir and the downshifting technology applied to Chrysler products.
You can read my previous posts on the TwinAir here and below is the official Fiat Press release describing the TwinAir:
A memorable event was organized in Turin, on 4 July 2007 to introduce the new Fiat 500, exactly 50 years after the original Fiat 500. From that day, the second generation of the model that epitomized the history of Italian cars, was quick to win everyone's hearts. For the many enthusiasts and customers worldwide, Fiat decided to celebrate each birthday of the pocket-sized 500 with special events and by introducing a new product bound to appeal to all.
In 2008, for example, picnics were organized in the main European capitals and the mighty Abarth 500 was introduced. The same thing happened in 2009 for the international presentation of the Fiat 500C, the original cabriolet version intended as a homage to the style of the 1957 open-topped car, which has already notched up more than 34,000 orders. In July, to celebrate the car's third year in existence, Fiat chose to launch its 85 HP (875 cc) TwinAir twin-cylinder engine on the 500 model, both saloon and cabrio..
The 500 is the first Fiat model to adopt this forerunner of a new family of engines: an 85 HP (875 cc) turbo two-cylinder with the lowest CO2 emission levels in the world for a petrol engine (92 g/km with a Dualogic robotized gearbox and 95 g/km with manual gearbox). All this is achieved without detracting from performance and driving satisfaction.
This is thanks to the small-sized turbine which, combined with dedicated valve management strategies, minimizes transient response times and, at the same time, keeps maximum power levels high. In this way, despite its small size, the engine ensures excellent performance and an appreciable reduction in fuel consumption: compared with a 1.2 8v, the 85 HP TwinAir records a power increase of 25% together with a 15% reduction in fuel consumption. In fact, the performance of the twin-cylinder unit is not only equivalent to a 1.4 16v, but its fuel consumption is a remarkable 30% less.
A Fiat 500 powered by a TwinAir engine can reach a top speed of 173 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in only 11 seconds. This remarkable performance corresponds to a significant reduction in fuel consumption: 4.0 l/100 km and 4.1 l/100 km with a Dualogic robotized gearbox and manual gearbox respectively. The Fiat 500 with an 85 HP TwinAir also comes with an ECO button � positioned on the dashboard � to cut fuel consumption still further around town and guarantee a genuinely eco-friendly drive by offering driving modes: Normal and ECO.
In the first mode, the ECO function is off and the engine delivers the maximum available torque (145 Nm), guaranteeing verve and a prompt response for a sportier drive. Steering power-assistance is also specifically calibrated for Normal mode. No indication appears on the dashboard in this mode (City is not selected). This configuration is therefore recommended for maximum response and full appreciation of all the available torque.
In ECO mode, on the other hand, the emphasis is on an eco-friendly drive: torque delivery is cut to 100 Nm at 2000 rpm to minimize fuel consumption and promote a driving style more suitable for town traffic. The effort required at the steering wheel is also lighter (CITY mode is automatically selected). The driver only needs to press the specific button on the dashboard to activate the ECO function. The lettering ECO will appear on the panel (the letter �E� will appear on the panel if the car has a Dualogic robotized gearbox). The Dualogic shifting strategy also switches to ECO mode to further optimize fuel consumption when a Dualogic gearbox is fitted.
Compared to a medium-sized four-cylinder unit of equal performance, the new engine is also significantly shorter (-23%) and lighter (-10%), opening the way to further developments, such as methane fuel system or hybrid technology combinations, again with a view to greater eco-friendliness. In particular, a methane version of the TwinAir will soon be available, guaranteeing a further CO2 emission reduction by adopting a pair of special injectors in addition to the petrol injectors on the intake manifold port.
Improving on these fuel saving results using internal combustion engines will be difficult and alternative technologies will need to be developed. The combination of traditional engines and electric motors appears particularly promising. Due to its reduced size, the TwinAir is most suitable for pairing with an electric engine and in general with any device located between the engine and gearbox designed to recover and store the energy that is normally dissipated during braking.
The 85 HP TwinAir unit also comes with Start&Stop as standard. This device temporarily stops the engine and restarts it, ensuring reductions in fuel consumption and noise in the passenger compartment when the device is in operation. The Gear Shift Indicator (GSI) fitted in conjunction with the Start&Stop is a veritable co-pilot that discreetly suggests to drivers when they should change gear, leading to more efficient use of the power unit in terms of fuel consumption. For example, the GSI may suggest shifting up, by means of an indication on the control panel, to allow the engine to burn a leaner mixture, i.e. one containing less fuel, or shifting down to make best use of the available torque.
Nothing short of an engineering gem, the twin-cylinder unit implements the revolutionary MultiAir technology developed and patented by FPT � Fiat Powertrain Technologies, which was first introduced on FIRE power units last year. The heart of MultiAir is a new electro-hydraulic valve management system that reduces fuel consumption by controlling air directly via the inlet valves (without using the throttle).
MultiAir reduces polluting emissions (thanks to combustion control) and also considerably improves performance and drivability with respect to a traditional petrol engine of equal displacement.
In brief, the advantages of MultiAir technology applied to petrol engines are:
- maximum power boosted by 10% with respect to a traditional engine of equal size;
- 15% more torque at low rpm and during transitions by applying early intake valve closing strategies to maximize the air introduced into the cylinders;
- less fuel consumption and consequently lower CO2 emissions, equal to 10% by eliminating pumping losses and precise parameter calibration for optimizing combustion;
- lower polluting emissions from the engine by optimizing valve control strategies during the intake stage;
- a more prompt response to accelerator commands due to the constant air pressure upstream of the cylinders combined with extremely fast control of the intake valves.
The new TwinAir engine also takes the concept of downsizing to an extreme: by combining a small-sized engine with a next-generation turbocharger, performance comparable to � or even better than � that of a larger engine is obtained, but with less fuel consumption and lower emissions.
Not only that, the turbo significantly increases maximum torque, making it available at a very low rpm, with the result of offering greater flexibility and an unrivaled responsiveness compared to conventional aspirated engines. All this comes with a relatively simple build to the benefit of strength and reliability.
Last but not least, the new engine was painstakingly optimized and tuned. For instance, the basic twin-cylinder architecture - combined with the low friction of internal parts - makes this engine best-in-class at a world level in terms of low friction. Furthermore, calculated simulations have been used to identify the best possible unit displacement in terms of thermo-dynamic efficiency, and the best fluid dynamic configuration to optimize and get the best out of the MultiAir system.
Finally, special attention has been placed on the NVH (Noise, vibration, and harshness) aspect to ensure vibration performance at least equivalent to that of a four-cylinder, with equal performance but with a characteristic sound. For this purpose, a balancing counter-shaft was used to maintain optimal vibration levels in all operating conditions of the engine, from idling speed to maximum power.
The Fiat 500 range also offers eco:Drive, innovative software for analyzing driving behavior and helping motorists optimize consumption and emissions by using the USB port of the Blue&Me system.
Finally, Blue&Me � TomTom, the latest evolution of the Blue&Me system, will be appearing on the Fiat 500 along with the new TwinAir engine. This is a fully integrated infotainment system that allows you to manage telephone, navigation and useful driving information functions through the Tom Tom's color touch screen interface. The application of this system on the Fiat 500 will also enable additional functionality that will also allow the media-player to be managed through the touch screen interface. The Blue&Me � TomTom is located in a dedicated housing on the dashboard that combines the safety, convenience and practicality of an integrated solution with the flexibility of portable devices. The device is constantly charged through the dedicated housing and may be controlled by means of steering wheel controls and also the touchscreen interface.
The device is the result of a partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles and TomTom, the European leader in portable navigation systems, and integrates with the car�s other systems via the Blue&Me system developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli.
It's been an exciting week for Fiat fans at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. Below are a couple of videos highlighting the new TWINAIR engine and the rationalizing of car size.
Paolo Martinelli, Fiat Powertrain Vice President, talks about TWIN-AIR engine concept at the 2010 Geneva Motor show. This downsizing concept will feature prominently in Chrysler's rebirth in the next few years. For all the MOPAR fans out there, don't worry, Martinelli knows engines and how to produce horsepower, he previously was head of Scuderia Ferrari's Engine Department from 1994 to 2006 and was responsible for developing the Ferrari V10 Formula One engines that won 6 constructor championships.
To illustrate this downsizing concept, let's take a look at Chrysler's V8 Hemi engine fitted to the Dodge Challenger R/T. This engine is a 5.7L V8 with 376hp, but if you applied the downsizing concept, and using the same specific output of the TWINAIR engine, you can have the same 376hp output in an engine of 3.2L. Now this example is simplified, but it gives you the idea.
Roberto Giolito, Fiat Style Director, discuses the concept of "downshifting" - the values of a large sedan within a small car - and of TWIN-AIR. Looking back, you can trace this "downshifting" concept to 1936 (when Fiat is acknowledged as inventing the modern small car, the Topolino) and throughout the years culminating with the ultimate interpretation, the current 500. This concept of having all the advantages of a bigger car, with none of the disadvantages, will be applied to Chrysler products coming in the near future.
Since last April, much has been written on this blog about Fiat's Small Gas Engine (SGE) technology. During these past 10 months, I've pieced together the story on this engine (now called TWIN-AIR) but below is the official Fiat press release for this revolutionary engine.
The TWIN-AIR will forever change how the world looks at engines with less than 4 cylinders.
TWIN-AIR - 85 HP, world preview
The new two-cylinder engine family made by FPT - Fiat Powertrain Technologies called TWIN-AIR will be making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. This is a brand-new concept on the worldwide auto scene and confirms the leadership of the Fiat Group in this field.
Using next-generation technology, the new engine implements the revolutionary Multiair system combined with special fluid dynamics optimized for the best fuel efficiency. Furthermore, by taking the concept of downsizing to the extreme and masterly tuning the basic mechanics, the new family - delivering from 65 to 105 HP - emits 30% less CO2 than an engine of equal performance.
Visitors to the show will admire the first application of this new engines on a 500, the first Fiat model on which it will be introduced next September. The car is equipped with a two-cylinder turbo 85 HP engine which has the lowest CO2 emission levels for a petrol engine (up to 95 g/km) without compromising performance and driving pleasure. Compared with the two engine versions available today, it provides excellent performance with a major fuel reduction: the new turbo two-cylinder 85 HP engine consumes down to 15% less fuel and has 25% more performance than the 1.2 8v, while fuel consumption drops to a remarkable 30% with respect to the 1.4 16v with comparable performance and the same high driving pleasure.
Furthermore, with respect to a four-cylinder of equal performance and medium displacement, the new engine is significantly shorter (-23%) and lighter (-10%), opening the way to interesting further developments, such as methane fuel feed or hybrid technology combinations, again under the sign of greater eco-friendliness. In particular, a methane version of the TWIN-AIR will be available soon providing a further CO2 emission reduction: this is possible by adopting a pair of special injectors in addition to the petrol injectors on the intake manifold rails. Improving these fuel saving results using internal combustion engines will be difficult and alternative technologies will need to be developed.
The combination of traditional engines and electric motors appears particularly promising. Precisely because of its small size, the TWIN-AIR is well suited to be coupled with an electric motor, and in general with a device arranged between engine and gearbox for recovering and storing the energy which is normally wasted during braking.
Nothing short of an engineering gem, the two-cylinder implements the revolutionary Multiair technology developed and patented by FPT � Fiat Powertrain Technologies, which was introduced on FIRE engines last year for the first time. The heart of Multiair is a new electro-hydraulic valve management system that reduces fuel consumption by controlling air directly via the inlet valves (without using the throttle). Multiair reduces polluting emissions (thanks to improved combustion control) and also considerably improves performance by boosting drivability with respect to a traditional petrol engine of equal displacement.
Furthermore, the new TWIN-AIR engine takes the concept of downsizing to the extreme: combining a small displacement engine with a next-generation turbocharger provides performance comparable to - or even better than - that of a larger engine but with less fuel consumption and lower emissions. And more: the turbo significantly increases the maximum torque, making it available at a very low rpm, with the result of offering greater flexibility and an unrivaled promptness of response compared to conventional aspirated engines. All this comes with a simple build that benefits strength and reliability.
Last but not least, the new engine was painstakingly optimized and tuned. For instance, the basic two-cylinder architecture - combined with the low friction of internal parts - ranks this engine best in the "friction" class in the world. Furthermore, computer simulations have been used to identify the best possible standard displacement in terms of thermo-dynamic efficiency, and the best fluid dynamic configuration to optimize and get the best out of the MultiAir system.
Finally, special attention has been placed on the NVH (Noise, vibration, and harshness) aspect to ensure vibration performance at least equivalent to that of a four-cylinder, with equal performance but with a characteristic sound. For this purpose, a balancing counter shaft was used to maintain optimal vibration levels in all operating conditions of the engine, from the idling speed to top power.
The twin cylinder SGE (Small Gas Engine) Fiat has been working on will finally make its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show, March 4-14th. Originally the engine was to make its debut in the new Topolino super mini Fiat has been working on over the last year and a half, however, that debut has been postponed this year due to poor economic projections in Europe for 2010.
Spy shots of the new Fiat Topolino
The 900cc parallel twin cylinder SGE will be christened "TwinAir" because of its use of MultiAir technology and will be first installed this summer in the Fiat 500.The TwinAir will be the smallest displacement gasoline engine available in Europe, however, it is important to note that it is very powerful for its size. The initial application will be in turbocharged 85hp form with turbocharged 105hp and normally aspirated 65hp versions to follow.
When and if we in the US will get the TwinAir engine is yet to be seen, however we will see this engine downsizing technology applied to Chrysler products. Fiat's concept is combining the MultiAir technology with a turbocharger will give the same power as a larger engine.
This is not a new concept, but the big advantage Fiat has is, now with MultiAir, the engine can be tuned to maximize low end torque for increased drivability. The goal here is to have a small engine behave like a big engine, with no sacrifice in drivability.
Click picture to enlarge
An example is the twin cylinder 900cc SGE, in turbocharged form, has the same power as the 1.4L 16V engine currently fitted in the Fiat 500.
For Chrysler, we'll see the new Pentastar V6 engines with MultiAir combined with single and twin turbochargers replace some of the large V8 engines.
Click picture to enlarge
The TwinAir combined electric Hybrid has also been developed. It is a very interesting twist on the normal hybrid car technology. The Fiat hybrid system is developed specifically for small vehicles unlike most current systems, with their bulky batteries. which are more suited for bigger vehicles.
For more information on the SGE TwinAir and Fiat hybrid click here.
At the North American International Auto Show Chrysler displayed an fully electric version of the Fiat 500 called the 500 BEV . The 500 BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle)is powered by an electric motor and a battery that can be charged using a common household plug. It does not have a gas engine. Under all conditions, it drives using electricity. The 500 BEV can travel up to 200 miles between charges. (beating the Nissan Leaf, also displayed at the Detroit Show).
The 500 BEV uses the interior and body kit from the 500 Abarth, with the rear valance treatment particularly interesting to an Abarth connoisseur.
The Fiat 500 BEV features all electric power
The Fiat 500BEV interior is nearly identical to the 500 Abarth
Transmission control similar to the MTA trans used in the 695 Abarth "Tributo Ferrari"
Hey, where are the tailpipes?
The above is the powertrain of the Fiat 500 Hybrid that Fiat has been developing in Italy. Fiat has been working a new hybrid power system that will power the new Fiat Topolino super mini and the 500 for a while now. I reported on this last April here. The technology works with the 900cc twin turbo SGE (Small Gasoline Engine) gas engine coupled to a new Dual Clutch automatic transmission that has an integral electric motor with next generation lithium-ion battery technology. It is a light, compact system that fits well with cars of reduced size.
The 500 BEV is a very preliminary concept, but the above Fiat Hybrid is much further developed. I would think the Fiat Hybrid system would make its appearance before we see the electric only BEV. We'll have to keep an eye on these technologies as time goes on.
Photos courtesy Chrysler Media and Fiat Group Auto
Fiat SGE-Twin Cylinder- 900cc Turbo - bifuel (gasoline/CNG hydrogen blend)
8 valves - 105 HP with Multiair technology
In Europe, the Fiat 500 comes with a choice of modern engines, each one offering great performance, excellent fuel economy and low emissions. There are two gasoline units (the 69 bhp 1.2 8 valve and 100 bhp 1.4 16 valve) and one Multijet turbo diesel, the 75 bhp 1.3 16 valve. In addition the Fiat 500 Abarth has a 1.4 16 valve turbocharged engine that puts out, depending on version, 135 bhp to 190 bhp.
However, what engines we'll see in America is still up in the air. By the time the 500 shows up in early 2011 model year the new Fiat SGE (Small Gas Engine) family of engines will be available. This engine is based on a cylinder displacement of 450cc and, in it's most talked about version, it's a 900cc bicylinder normally aspirated or turbocharged unit. Initially horsepower is thought to be at four levels, 65, 80, 90 and 105 bhp. You can read more about what makes the Fiat SGE technology special here.
What is known is that Fiat needs to send us the most powerful versions to succeed here. The 900cc SGE bicylinder MultiAir Turbo with 105 bhp is equivalent to the 1.4 16v 100 bhp engine output wise, but the SGE should be more enjoyable due to the MultiAir system boosting torque. This is a good start but 115 bhp would be better.
The Fiat 500 Abarth currently with 135 bhp would not be sufficient to compete with the cars in its presumed price range (low to mid $20,000's). In this country, it's alway been a horsepower race. The $21,950 Mini has 172 bhp, the $23,230 VW GTI has 200 bhp and the $22,740 Mazda Speed 3 has 263 bhp (of course if the Abarth came in under $20,000, 135 bhp would look better). We could speculate that the Abarth will use the 1.4 16v MultiAir Turbo unit out of the Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadrifoglio Verde that is rated at 170 bhp.
But wait, this is speculative because we don't know what, when or if there will be a performance version of the SGE. We do know there will be multi cylinder versions and if we use a basic formula, a tricylinder SGE turbo of 1350cc will bring 157 bhp at the same level of tune as the bicylinder SGE turbo. Smaller, lighter engines that make more power (and get better fuel mileage) are a good thing, especially in an already light vehicle. At this power level the Abarth will be competitive.
All this will be hashed out during the coming year and it promises to be exciting. In the meanwhile, below is the press release describing the current Fiat 500 engines available. This knowledge will prime us for the next generation of engine technology Fiat is introducing next week and in the coming months.
Fiat 500 engine technology
The Fiat 500 comes with a choice of superb modern engines that guarantee sparkling performance. There are two petrol units (the 69 bhp 1.2 8v and 100 bhp 1.4 16v) and one Multijet turbo diesel, the 75 bhp 1.3 16v with DPF. Each offers different features, all of which are exploited fully by combining them with mechanical 5 or 6 speed gearboxes (a Dualogic sequential robotized 5-speed gearbox will also be available at a later date for the petrol engines), and they stand out for their generosity, brilliant temperament, top performance and advanced technology. However they all also share top reliability and respect for the environment. This has been demonstrated in over 1,600,000 km (1 million miles) that the test cars have already traveled, which will become 2,350,000 km (1.460 million miles) with the last tests.
We should underline that all the engines are Euro 4-compliant and are designed to meet the even stricter limitations of future European standards (Euro 5), already meeting the emissions limits that will presumably be enforced in 2009. The 1.3 Multijet is also equipped with a particulate trap (PDF) as standard equipment.
All the engines mounted on the Fiat 500 are manufactured by Fiat Powertrain Technologies, the Group�s new sector. FPT draws together all the activities in the fields of innovation, research, design and manufacture related to engines and gearboxes for all types of applications: from cars to commercial vehicles, boats and agricultural machinery. With approximately 19,000 employees, 17 plants and 10 research centers in eight different countries, the Sector is one of the world�s most important organizations in its field. At FPT, approximately 3000 highly specialized technicians focus on the development and engineering of innovative technologies. More than 40 patents are filed each year, confirming the quality and seriousness of this commitment, and making FPT a huge centre of technological excellence and ongoing innovation.
The 69 bhp Fire 1.2 8v
Fiat 1.2 8 valve engine
The tried and tested Fire (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine) engine that will power the Fiat 500 has a capacity of 1242 cc, and has undergone a series of refinements designed to make it a champion of fuel economy, but without detracting from performance. The engine delivers 51 kW (69 bhp) at 5500 rpm, and peak torque of 102 Nm (10.4 kgm) at 3000 rpm, with a top speed of 160 km/h. That is not all. With the 1.2 8v engine, the Fiat 500 leads its class for consumption, delivering 5.1 l/100 km in the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 119 g/km. Acceleration over 100 meters is also excellent at 12.9 seconds.
This figure is even more significant in view of the car�s low consumption. The credit goes to the structure of the engine, which achieves a generous torque at low revs (this makes for more enjoyable driving and outstanding flexibility) and ratios chosen to highlight fuel economy.
A sparkling engine that is sparing on fuel. This has been achieved thanks essentially to:
1) The adoption of an electronic throttle valve control system known as �drive by wire� (with no mechanical connection between the accelerator and the throttle), while it is the electronic control unit that delivers the torque on the basis of the driver�s demands (torque-based system).
2) Fluid dynamic optimization achieved by a new high turbulence combustion chamber combined with a continuous variable cam phaser. This innovative system allows a substantial part of the exhaust gases (about 25%) to be recirculated in the combustion chamber, significantly reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions when driving with a partial load.
3) The timing components have been made lighter and the valve springs are of the low load type, to reduce friction.
Another interesting feature of this engine where fuel consumption is concerned, is the use of an active knock sensor capable of managing the advance in the best possible way in all conditions and, above all, the multi point sequential phased injection system by Magneti Marelli.
The quality of life on board has also been improved by optimizing the performance of the intake and exhaust systems, optimizing the coupling play between the crankshaft and crankcase, through the computerized selection of the main bearings, and the development of a specific installation of the engine in the engine bay.
This keeps the transmission of vibration from the engine to the body shell to a minimum. A special engine support system has been adopted, that comprises two blocks and a reaction link, which acts as a tie rod, in which the new bearings are aligned on an axis that goes through the engine�s center of gravity in order to obtain reaction forces with a neutral arm.
On the environmental front, the 1.2 8v fits a catalytic converter in the engine bay, welded to the exhaust manifold flange. In this position the device is extremely efficient because it reaches high temperatures very rapidly thus abating emissions even while the engine is warming up.
The engine has been made even more reliable. The coils have been mounted closer together in a single block. This new type of coil means less spark plug wear, more energy available to ignite each plug thanks to the elimination of the lost spark, better cold starting due to the additional energy available for the spark plug (more energy supplied by the coil and no losses caused by the transfer of high voltage due to the adoption of very short cables), and finally, a significant reduction in the risk of disturbance to the on board instruments due to high voltage cables.
The 75 bhp 1.3 Multijet 16v
Fiat 1.3 Multijet 16v Turbo Diesel engine
The Fiat 500 would not be complete without the 1.3 16v Multijet engine, the smallest and most advanced second generation direct injection Common rail diesel unit, of which more than two million have been built to date.
Fitted with a Borg-Warner fixed geometry turbo (of the waste-gate type) with an intercooler, the engine delivers a maximum of 75 bhp (55 kW at 4000 rpm) and torque of 14.8 kgm (145 Nm) at 1500 rpm. With this engine, the Fiat 500 guarantees excellent performance: it has a top speed of 165 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds.
Fuel consumption is also among the best for this segment: 5.3 l/100 km in the urban cycle, 3.6 l/100 km out of town and 4.2 l/100 km in the combined cycle, and CO2 emissions are among the lowest on the market at just 111 g/km.
The engine is a straight-4 with a capacity of 1248 cc, a bore of 69.6 mm and a �long� stroke of 82 mm. There are four valves per cylinder, governed directly by a twin overhead camshaft with maintenance-free hydraulic tappets and automatic play take-up.
That is not all. The 1.3 Multijet 16v is a miniature masterpiece: �dressed� with all its accessories, it weighs just 130 kg, it is small, just 50 cm long and 65 cm tall, and the component layout was designed to take up as little space as possible.
Designed by criteria of maximum rationality, efficiency and reliability, the engine guarantees excellent efficiency and is practically �for life�: it was designed to travel 250,000 km without needing any maintenance to the mechanical components. The compact, sophisticated engine is also extremely eco-friendly, thanks to an emissions control system that envisages an EGR valve triggered electronically and managed directly by the engine control system, a heat exchanger to cool recirculating exhaust gas (EGR) and a �close coupled� catalytic converter.
A particulate trap (DPF), the �for life� system that abates fine dust and does not need additives to be regenerated, is standard equipment.
The 75 bhp 1.3 Multijet 16v therefore represents a technological leap forward which, for the customer, translates into lower consumption and emissions, without even taking into consideration the reduction in noise (due to the multiple injections), the increase in comfort (fewer alternating masses means less vibration), the smooth, responsive steering (due to the really smooth torque delivery, which is guaranteed by the improved combustion control), the elasticity and prompt response of a diesel that resembles a petrol engine for the vast excursion in the number of revs (for example, you are no longer aware of the fuel �cut-out� just above 4000 rpm), and the ecological elements that enhance the diesel�s main environmental credentials (consumption) while minimizing its main defect (particulate emissions).
The 100 bhp 1.4 16v Fire engine
Fiat 1.4 16v Fire engine
One hundred horsepower on hand on such a compact car points up a brilliant, agile character, which allows it to slip easily and cheerfully through congested town traffic. The engine has a capacity of 1368 cc and four cylinders in line, with a bore of 72 mm and stroke of 84 mm.
There are four valves per cylinder, driven directly by the overhead camshaft. The engine was developed focusing particular attention on performance and consumption, fields in which the Fiat 500 leads its class. All credit to the volumetric efficiency which has been optimized throughout the operating range, thanks to careful fluid dynamic development of the entire intake system and timing phasing.
The 1.4 16v delivers a maximum of 73.5 kW (100 bhp) at 6000 rpm and peak torque of 131 Nm (13.4 kgm) at 4250 rpm. Performance is excellent: the new car has a top speed of 182 km/h, and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds. It is a sparkling engine with excellent performance enhanced by an electronic throttle valve control system known as �drive by wire�.
This engine also proposes a number of changes that help to keep consumption down. For example, the timing components have been made lighter and the valve springs are of the low load type, to reduce friction.
Other features of the new 1.4 16v Fire are the increased compression ratio and the generous torque at low engine speeds, characteristics that have made it possible to limit consumption: for example, in the combined cycle it returns 6.3 l/100 km. This target was achieved by the calibration of the latest generation engine control system, which succeeded in reducing consumption as much as possible, compatible with the requirements of drive ability, performance and emissions.
In order to guarantee low emissions, special injectors have been adopted that optimize the spray phase, thus reducing the quantity of petrol that adheres to the walls of the intake manifold during cold starting and in transients (when you depress the accelerator). This reduces the quantity of hydrocarbons in the exhaust, guaranteeing respect for the environment and for increasingly stringent legislation.
