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12.07.2005

MCE-5 of France has launched the MCE-5 VCR engine block - a mechanical solution that allows the mass production of VCR (Variable Compression Ratio) engines to the required environmental standards. The MCE-5 VCR engine block is designed to replace traditional fixed-compression engine blocks. The MCE-5 technology is an all-in-one VCR engine block that combines power transmission and compression-ratio control.

VCR is a major technical innovation that makes it possible to tackle the main environmental and energy issues affecting the automotive industry. VCR will permit the production of attractive, powerful and fuel-efficient vehicles that meet European Union and global objectives of reducing greenhouse gases and pollutant emissions. VCR strategy induces a fuel-consumption reduction of about 30% while remaining compatible with the simplest and most efficient after-treatment device - the three-way catalyst.

The MCE-5 integrates long-life gears and an exclusive roller-guided piston that is not subject to slap or radial stress. This feature ensures exceptional durability and reliability for high-loaded VCR engines on high mileages. This means that the MCE-5 meets one of the greatest challenges for downsized engines with extreme power and torque density - durability.

The great strength of the MCE-5 VCR engine block also results from the rigidity of its crankshaft and of its main structure, which give the hydrodynamic bearings an optimum geometrical environment and a long lifespan. The MCE-5 VCR engine block has no negative effects on the other components or the vehicle. Exhaust and transmission connections are precisely the same as those of a conventional engine.

Designed in 1997, the MCE-5 VCR engine block has been tested and improved in successive stages. The new MCE-5 generation is suitable for marketing and its components are manufactured using mass production techniques. Its production cost is in line with the profitability criteria sought in the car manufacturing industry.

Mastery of production costs and exclusive features means that the MCE-5 will help produce powerful, attractive and fuel-efficient vehicles that are more competitive and profitable for the automotive industry than diesel or hybrid vehicles. The MCE-5 VCR technology will also open the way to a set of decisive strategies that will enable the car industry to tackle future issues.

About MCE-5

Based in Lyons, in south-east France, the MCE-5 Development Company was established in 2000 by a small group of engineers to carry out the MCE-5 R&D programmes. The MCE-5 Development Company is supported by major French institutions for energy saving, innovation and transportation - PREDIT programme (French programme for energy and transportation), ADEME (French Agency for Environment and Energy Management), ANVAR (French Agency for Innovation), French Ministry of Research and French Ministry of Industry.

A DVD is available from the company on request. It presents - in English or in French - all the MCE-5 technology in images. A short version lasts for four minutes and the one-hour version includes interviews.

Kate Ambler | Source: FTPB - Press Bureau
Further information: www.infotechfrance.com/london
www.mce-5.fr

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