World Engine Delivers World Class Performance and Value

The new family of four-cylinder World Engines produced at the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) plants will deliver an exceptional combination of quality, fuel efficiency, refinement, performance and durability.

“These four-cylinder engines will achieve five percent improved fuel efficiency over the engines they replace, while rivaling the horsepower and torque ratings of many V-6 engines,” said Chrysler Group President and CEO Tom LaSorda.

GEMA is producing 1.8-liter, 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter engines jointly developed by GEMA partners DaimlerChrysler, Hyundai Motor Company and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. The Dundee-built engines will initially appear in the 2007 Dodge Caliber, available in the first quarter of 2006. Each company will use the same base engines, but can tailor aspects such as intake and exhaust to fit their respective brands and vehicles.

Aggressive performance and fuel economy targets are achieved through advanced cylinder head port and intake manifold design. These technologies include dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and intake manifold design with flow control valves — technologies currently found only on more expensive performance and luxury engines in the American market. The horsepower and torque targets are among the best four-cylinder engines — 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque for the 2.4-liter.

Because fuel economy is a key factor in the four-cylinder market, the World Engines are targeted to raise efficiency 5 percent over the engines they replace. These technologies also enable the engine to meet the ultra-clean ULEV II emissions standards.

GEMA set a high standard for sound quality and minimal noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). To meet these targets, engineers addressed NVH through several unique measures, including an isolated valve cover and a damped oil pan to reduce sound at the top and bottom of the engine. A variety of select-fit parts also aid in the minimization of NVH, while engine idle smoothness is improved through dual VVT technology and the flow control valve intake manifold.

“In addition to these unique attributes, these engines will deliver world-class quality and durability,” LaSorda said. “These engines have benefited from the contributions and commitment of all three partners.”

Hyundai led the development of the base engine, and the Chrysler Group made significant engineering contributions to the engine design. Through the involvement of all three automakers, durability testing for World Engine includes 15 million customer-equivalent miles. Additionally, partners have shared best practices and lessons learned from past and current experiences, resulting in improved refinement, quality and durability.