Cylinder shut-off technology straight from Formula One is behind a new 5.5-litre V8 engine from Mercedes-AMG set to debut in the all-new SLK 55 AMG.
The new high-revving, naturally-aspirated V8 delivers increased output (now 310kW/540Nm) but reduces average fuel consumption to just 8.5l/100kms – less than a four-cylinder Toyota Camry.
Based on the Mercedes-Benz bi-turbo V8 which powers the just-launched CLS 63 AMG and upcoming E 63 AMG, the newcomer runs revised air intake ducting, new cylinder heads and a modified valve train.
The secret to the massive gain in fuel consumption is the Formula One inspired AMG Cylinder Management System which shuts down two or four cylinders at low engine loads. In Formula One the idea is to save fuel (so designers can fit smaller, lighter weight fuel tanks) but for the SLK 55 AMG the payback is reduced consumption (30 per cent less than the previous V8) and lower emissions (down to 199g/km).
Cylinder shut-off occurs between 800rpm and 3600rpm and shits-down cylinders two, three, five and eight when the driver has selected the ‘C’ (Controlled Efficiency) mode for the transmission. However with 230Nm of torque available in four-cylinder mode, the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG still provides more than enough performance for most day-to-day urban driving.
Like all AMG engines, the new 5.5-litre V8 is hand assembled with one technician responsible for each powerplant. AMG’s ‘one man, one engine’ philosophy ensures strict quality control.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG will debut later this year at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
