Lotus is to join forces with Jaguar on developing the use of renewable fuel-powered engines by improving their fuel efficiency. The project, called Omnivore, will see the Norfolk based engineering consultancy division collaborate with Jaguar Cars and experts in engine simulation from Queen’s University Belfast. A single-cylinder research engine will be produced by January 2009, aimed at achieving higher thermal efficiency through a variable compression ratio system with a two-stroke operating cycle with direct fuel injection.
The Omnivore project hopes to develop better fuel efficiency from sustainable bio-alcohol fuels. Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said, “We are also working on all aspects of future fuels, investigating alternative powertrains to accommodate alcohol fuels as they enter the market. Taking full advantage of the benefits of sustainable bio-alcohols will ensure a greater percentage of vehicle miles will be travelled using renewable fuels.”Lotus Cars has previously explored the possibility of a bio-fuel car with the Exige 270E Tri-fuel concept shown earlier this year at the Geneva motor show.
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