Abstract
In the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), the friction of modern automotive gasoline engines consumes 20% of the fuel - for diesel engines the rate is even higher. Studies show that part of this potential is to be reclaimed within the next ten years and fuel savings of about 10% can be reached by design measures.
In this paper three very promising approaches for friction reduction are discussed:
Thermal management
System piston / liner
Crankshaft bearing
Possible designs are shown and evaluated via an effort-benefit analysis. Reducing engine friction is not only tempting because of its potential, but also, because the improvements are effective in addition to the development of fuel efficient combustion processes.