A system employed in some internal combustion engines allows for cylinders to be deactivated under light load conditions. This technology enhances fuel efficiency by reducing the engine’s displacement when full power is not required. For example, a V8 engine equipped with this system might operate as a V4 under highway cruising conditions, thereby consuming less fuel.
The implementation of this technology offers notable advantages, including decreased fuel consumption and lower emissions. Its development represents a significant advancement in automotive engineering, driven by increasing demands for environmentally friendly vehicles and more stringent fuel economy regulations. It allows vehicles to achieve better mileage without sacrificing the power needed for more demanding driving scenarios.