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Ferrari surprises the world with a groundbreaking patent! Elliptical pistons could transform V12 engines, bringing more power and efficiency.
Ferrari, one of the greatest icons of the automobile industry, has registered a patent that could transform the future of combustion engines.
The Italian automaker has developed an elliptical piston concept that promises to increase engine efficiency and power without compromising the tradition of V12 engines.
The project, which is still in the study phase, could represent a milestone in automotive engineering, allowing the brand to keep its high-performance engines on the market for longer.
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A concept that defies the norm
Since the advent of internal combustion engines, pistons have always been round.
However, Ferrari proposes an innovative design, with pistons elongated perpendicular to the crankshaft.
The idea is to create a more compact and efficient engine, reducing friction and increasing performance.
The inspiration for this project is not entirely new.
Honda, for example, experimented with oval pistons in Formula 1 and in motorcycles, allowing the inclusion of eight valves per cylinder instead of the traditional four.
Although Honda's idea was abandoned due to technical challenges, Ferrari believes that advances in machining and metallurgy could make the concept viable today.
How does Ferrari's revolutionary engine work?
According to the patent registered under EU code 24197835.2, Ferrari's elliptical pistons would have a pill-like design, being shorter in one direction and longer in the other.
This configuration would allow the pistons to be closer together, reducing the overall length of the engine without compromising combustion capacity.
Another innovation present in the project is a new crankshaft and connecting rod design.
In conventional engines, each piston is connected to a separate bearing.
In the model proposed by Ferrari, two opposing pistons would share the same bearing, resulting in a more compact, efficient engine with less internal friction.
The impact on the future of V12 engines
Ferrari is one of the few automakers that still produce naturally aspirated V12 engines.
With increasing pressure for electrification and stricter emissions standards, many brands have been moving towards smaller, turbocharged engines.
However, Ferrari has reaffirmed its commitment to V12 engines wherever possible.
The new design could extend the life of these traditional engines, making them more efficient and compliant with future environmental regulations.
This solution could be especially relevant for high-performance sports cars and possible partial electrification projects, where smaller and more compact engines are essential.
Possible application in racing cars
Although Ferrari has not officially revealed its plans for this new engine, it is speculated that the technology could be applied to competition vehicles.
According to Autosport publications, there is a possibility that the FIA will allow naturally aspirated engines with synthetic fuel in the future.
If this happens, Ferrari could use its new engine in future editions of Formula 1 or in endurance races, such as Le Mans.
Historically, Ferrari has used rear-mounted V12 engines in its racing models, with the 512 F1996M being the last to adopt this configuration.
With the new patent, this configuration could return to the brand's cars, especially at a time of transition to more sustainable fuels.
Implementation challenges
Despite the great potential, the adoption of elliptical pistons brings significant challenges.
Circular parts are widely used because they are easier to manufacture and offer predictable operation.
Internal combustion engines have been developed in this format for over 150 years, and any change in this concept requires a large investment in research and development.
On the other hand, recent technological advances have allowed the production of more complex and efficient components.
If Ferrari can overcome the production and durability challenges, the new engine could represent a game changer for the automotive industry.
According to experts, Ferrari's patent indicates that the brand continues to invest in innovative solutions to keep its iconic engines on the market.
The use of elliptical pistons can bring a revolution to combustion engines, making them more compact, efficient and aligned with new environmental requirements.
Although the project is still in the testing phase, its potential is enormous.
If Ferrari can make it viable, we could see, in the coming years, a new generation of more efficient and technologically advanced V12 engines, keeping the brand's tradition in motorsport alive.
Now, we just have to wait and see if this innovation will come to fruition and speed across the tracks and streets of the world.
