Porsche has patented a revolutionary new engine design that could keep the petrol-powered car on the market for much longer than expected.
As the Government confirms plans to extend the ban on new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to 2030, the German performance car brand announced an unconventional six-stroke petrol engine that can increase power and drastically cut emissions.
Mat Watson, Chief Content Officer at the vehicle retail platform Carwow, highlighted that Porsche regards the engine design as a stablemate for its electric models.
He explained: “It’s not that Porsche is resisting electric; it’s already revealed the new electric Macan, and there are plans in motion to electrify the Boxster and the Cayman – with a new electric alternative to the Cayenne on the way, too.
“The potential emissions and power advantages of a 6-stroke engine could make sure Porsche’s iconic sports car keeps internal combustion power for as long as possible. Especially if its investment in synthetic fuels pays off.”
Whilst a typical petrol or diesel engine produces power after every four-stroke cycle, the new Porsche engine has a unique set of vents and gears to let in fuel and air six times a cycle.
As a result, compared to current engines, it can produce more power whilst consuming less fuel and potentially producing fewer emissions, with the additional combustion stroke taking advantage of any unburnt petrol still in the engine.
Porsche has also invested heavily in the development of synthetic fuels, which would be compatible with petrol engines but sustainable to produce without using crude oil.
Mat noted that the new Porsche engine showcases how premium car brands can play an instrumental role in developing future cars.
He added: “I’m not suggesting we all go out and buy supercars tomorrow. But I am saying that brands with a vested interest in innovating.
“In this case, to keep iconic sports cars on the road by reducing their environmental impact with no compromise to performance, [they] can drive innovation forward that the rest of the market can learn from.”
