The technology was developed by FreeValve AB, based in Ängelholm, Sweden, and owned by Koenigsegg.
Qoros debuted the Qamfree engine with FreeValve technology in a concept car at the Beijing Motor Show, in April 2016.
Called “Qamfree” in the Qoros application, FreeValve uses a pneumatic-hydraulic-electronic actuator to replace the traditional camshaft-based method of controlling valve operation in an internal combustion engine. This results is much more precise and completely customisable control over valve duration and lift, on both the intake and exhaust sides.
The engine on show at Guangzhou is a 1.6 litre turbocharged engine using FreeValve technology to produce 230hp and 320Nm of torque. This represents a 47% increase in power, a 45% increase in torque and a 15% reduction in fuel consumption when compared to a traditional camshaft engine with similar specifications.
The benefits are not confined to significant performance improvements and better fuel economy, however. In implementing FreeValve technology, manufacturers are able to do away with expensive parts such as the throttle body, camshaft, cam drive, timing gear and cover, wastegate, pre-catalytic converter systems and direct injection systems.
The comparative FreeValve engine is 20kg lighter and much more compact, saving 50mm in height and 70mm in depth, which allows manufacturers exciting new vehicle design and packaging options.
Koenigsegg founder Christian von Koenigsegg is also chairman of FreeValve AB.
“FreeValve technology has taken many years of testing and refinement but the results are extremely satisfying” said Urban Carlson, CEO of FreeValve AB. “This production-intent engine offers Qoros significant savings in emissions, cost and weight. It also offers groundbreaking benefits to vehicle owners in terms of a near 50% increase in both power and torque, while actually reducing fuel consumption.“
Qoros will use a fleet of test engines in conjunction with FreeValve AB to further refine the technology to suit its own vehicles designs prior to mass production in an as-yet unnamed vehicle in the future.
