The Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA), which represents DaimlerChrysler, Hyundai and Mitsubishi, has developed a new line of I-4 engines that utilize dual variable valve timing (VVT). This technology varies the timing of the engine's intake and exhaust valves (as opposed to other VVT engines which often vary only the exhaust valve timing) thereby improving fuel economy by 5% over current I-4 engines. These engines are the first US built engines to utilize dual-VVT technology and are available in 1.8-liter, 2.0-liter, and 2.4-liter displacements.

The World Engines are built at two new GEMA plants in Dundee, Michigan. Together the two plants created 500 new UAW organized jobs. The first of the plants is responsible for $700 million in investment, and began production of the engines in October 2005. The second began production in late 2006. Each plant is expected to produce 420,000 engines annually.

The new engines will likely be offered in most DaimlerChrysler, Hyundai and Mistsubishi vehicles that utilize I-4 engines and will be replacing engines that are currently produced in Mexico. The first vehicles to use the engines are the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot, which are expected to have a 20% fuel-economy increase over predecessor like the Dodge Neon.

Washington Post Story: New Engine Plant Marks a New Deal for Auto Industry

Source: DaimlerChrysler Corporation

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