The Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (AME) has agreed to play an integral part in the development of cleaner, more efficient engines.
The AME will collaborate with Unipart Eberspächer Exhaust Systems (UEES) to design, develop and prototype manufacture new fuel rail systems for the Ford 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine.
The project has received more than £900,000 worth of investment from InnovateUK and will use eight teams of engineers, designers, quality experts and material specialists on simulation, analysis and metrology aspects of the work.
The union will play a major role in manufacturing a three cylinder, one litre high-pressure gasoline turbo engine for future Ford models.
James Simester, technology director at AME, said: “This demonstrates the trend for powertrain solutions that offer the same level of performance, but a reduced engine capacity.
“It’s definitely the next big advancement in this field and gives the car manufacturers the chance to offer motorists improved efficiencies, cleaner vehicles and a host of cost savings without detracting from the driving experience.
“Our role will be to work with UEES on developing a new fuel rail system that is able to offer the high pressure performance required by the gasoline turbo engine.
“We will then be responsible for manufacturing the prototypes and coming up with processes and strategies for long-term volume production.
“It’s a massive challenge, but one we know we can make a difference with. The fact this funding follows the recent ‘Towards Zero Prototyping’ project also shows our reputation is spreading across industry.”
Dennis Witt, Ford project manager: Advanced Propulsion Centre, said: “Ford is delighted to be actively involved in this project, which will ultimately see benefits for consumers through even further improved engine efficiency – reduced emissions and improved performance.”
AME is a collaboration between Coventry University and Unipart Manufacturing Group.
