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Tomorrow’s world: Fiat's MultiAir engine tech

By Jesse Crosse Motor Industry 14 October 2009 16:50 Fiat this year launches what it claims is a big step forward in variable valve timing: MultiAir. It's the first time that a manufacturer has made a properly variable valve system a production reality, and will slowly be rolled out across most of Fiat's and Alfa's car ranges.How does Fiat's MultiAir vary from existing variable valve timing (VVT) systems?Current VVT systems rely on mechanical systems to open and close the valves. Engineers have long understood the benefits of changing valve opening and closing times to tweak an engine's power and emissions performance, depending on the need for power or parsimony.Valves are an engine's nose and mouth – it inhales through inlet valves and exhales through exhaust valves.

Nissan backs radical DeltaWing racecar program

Nissan has announced its involvement in a radical new motorsport project, dubbed the DeltaWing, which will race at the Le Mans 24 Hours this summer using Nissan power. The car is the work of Ben Bowlby who originally designed the car as a proposal for the 2012 IndyCar racer, which has since found the attention of Nissan after its rejection by the American race championship. The headlines of the design are that it's half the weight and has half the aerodynamic drag of a conventional racer and is therefore far more efficient.

Maserati and Poltrona Frau showcasing continuing collaboration

Maserati and Poltrona Frau are showcasing their continuing collaboration in automotive design in a weeklong exhibition at Design Centre at Chelsea Harbor, London. From 18 until 22 June the glass domes of Design Centre will play host to a Maserati GranCabrio Sport as well as one of Poltrona Frau's skilled artisan upholsterers working on a chair throughout the week in a demonstration of traditional Italian craftsmanship. Poltrona Frau, the international high-end furniture company, has realized the interiors of the entire Maserati range – including the Quattroporte saloon, GranTurismo coupe and GranCabrio convertible – through its 100-year history of leather working and handcraftsmanship.