I am not an automobile expert, but I am not a complete novice either. I am just wondering if it would be possible to build a six-cylinder engine in V configuration, with the option for the driver to use 4/6 of the cylinders or 6/6 when so desired. When doing city driving, he could use four cylinders to improve economy, but when on the highway and needs power, could switch to six cylinders.

What could be the timing, load-balancing, and other challenges? Just thinking, Is this what a turbo charger could be instead? Cheers!

Hmnn

tpacalipse:

Hmnn

Impossible?

For the fact that a car is 4cylinder engine does not mean it is more economical. It depends on so many things and what you are really after. But for your question, it could be possible but I really do not know.

tpacalipse:

For the fact that a car is 4cylinder engine does not mean it is more economical. It depends on so many things and what you are really after. But for your question, it could be possible but I really do not know.

The emboldened part is not true for city driving, or idling, which we face daily in Lagos.

Where are the experts please?

i have a 6cylinders that save fuel than my four cylinders.

What car is that please?

1998 qx maxima v6 2000 toyota camry 2.2 4cylinda,i love my v6

Thank you.

Engine cylinder deactivation

Honda's Variable Cylinder Management

Starting with the 2005 Odyssey, Honda applied cylinder-deactivation-dubbed Variable Cylinder Management-technology to its 3.5-liter i-VTEC ("i" for "intelligent") V-6 engine. When high output was needed, the engine ran on all 6 cylinders. While cruising and under light load, one bank of 3 cylinders was idled. The unwanted cylinders were sealed shut for the duration, minimizing internal pumping losses. As soon as full power was demanded, the additional valves went into action and their cylinders began to receive fuel.

In Honda's VCM V-6, the hydraulic circuit consists of two systems, each capable of providing the pressure needed to actuate the synchronizing piston that disables the unneeded valves. This is accomplished by separating the two tandem rocker arms that work with each valve, causing it to remain shut.

Honda's control system monitors throttle position, vehicle and engine speed, and automatic-transmission gear selection, to determine if the vehicle is cruising or decelerating. When idling those 3 cylinders, the system also alters ignition timing and turns the transmission's torque converter lock-up on and off, to suppress jolting during the transition between 6- and 3-cylinder operation.

Later, Accord and Pilot models could also get VCM. Honda claimed "a smooth, seamless switch between 3- and 6-cylinder modes that is nearly unnoticeable to the driver."

Except for Honda's V-6 engine, most cylinder deactivation is applied to domestically-built truck V-8 engines, though various GM V-6 engines also are benefitting from the technology. Still, the systems don't get nearly as much attention as some other methods of boosting fuel economy.