Cars with Atkinson Cycle Engines

What is the Atkinson Cycle?

The Atkinson cycle is a type of internal combustion engine cycle that is designed to improve fuel efficiency. It was invented by James Atkinson in 1882. The Atkinson cycle is similar to the Otto cycle, which is the most common type of internal combustion engine cycle. However, there are some key differences between the two cycles.

One of the key differences between the Atkinson cycle and the Otto cycle is the compression ratio. The compression ratio is the ratio of the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at the bottom of its stroke to the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at the top of its stroke. In an Otto cycle engine, the compression ratio is typically between 8:1 and 11:1. In an Atkinson cycle engine, the compression ratio is typically between 12:1 and 14:1.

The higher compression ratio in an Atkinson cycle engine allows for more expansion of the air-fuel mixture during the power stroke. This increased expansion results in a higher thermal efficiency, which means that more of the energy in the fuel is converted into useful work.

Advantages of Atkinson Cycle Engines

There are several advantages to using Atkinson cycle engines. These advantages include:

• Improved fuel efficiency: Atkinson cycle engines can improve fuel efficiency by up to 15%. This is due to the higher thermal efficiency of the Atkinson cycle.
• Reduced emissions: Atkinson cycle engines can also reduce emissions. This is because the higher thermal efficiency of the Atkinson cycle results in less fuel being burned, which in turn reduces the amount of emissions produced.
• Smoother operation: Atkinson cycle engines are also known to operate more smoothly than Otto cycle engines. This is due to the fact that the Atkinson cycle has a longer expansion stroke, which results in a more gradual transfer of heat to the pistons.

Disadvantages of Atkinson Cycle Engines

There are also some disadvantages to using Atkinson cycle engines. These disadvantages include:

• Reduced power output: Atkinson cycle engines typically have less power output than Otto cycle engines. This is due to the fact that the Atkinson cycle has a longer expansion stroke, which results in a shorter power stroke.
• Increased cost: Atkinson cycle engines are typically more expensive to manufacture than Otto cycle engines. This is due to the fact that Atkinson cycle engines require more complex valvetrain systems.

Cars with Atkinson Cycle Engines

There are a number of cars that use Atkinson cycle engines. These cars include:

• Toyota Prius
• Honda Insight
• Mazda3
• Ford Fusion Hybrid
• Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Conclusion

Atkinson cycle engines are a type of internal combustion engine that can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. However, Atkinson cycle engines also have some disadvantages, such as reduced power output and increased cost. Overall, Atkinson cycle engines are a good option for drivers who are looking for a fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly vehicle.