Shanghai GM starts producing Ecotec engines

Shanghai, May 19 (Gasgoo.com) Last week, Shanghai General Motors started to produce GM's global Ecotec 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter series of engines at Shanghai GM Dong Yue Automotive Powertrain, the joint venture's manufacturing base in Yantai, east China's Shandong province.

Both Ecotec engines are developed by GM in Europe and rely on cutting-edge technologies for low emissions and high efficiency. The Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) and Variable Intake Manifold (VIM) were especially introduced to provide high torque at low rpm and high horsepower per liter, with the 1.6-liter unit developing 54 kW/L of power, while the 1.8-liter engine produces 58 kW/L of power.

The Ecotec engine project is part of Shanghai GM's "Drive to Green" strategy, which will contribute to the sustainable development of China's auto industry and the creation of an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly society. GM says the two new engines will be installed on models produced by Shanghai GM and sold in China.

"The introduction of the new Ecotec engines is an example of our commitment to share our company's latest technology with our joint ventures in order to ensure that GM products sold locally are as efficient as possible," said Kevin Wale, President of the GM China Group. "Our goal is to make all of our products and powertrains leaders in their class in fuel efficiency and emissions."

Shanghai GM Dongyue Automotive Powertrain, a joint venture between GM China, SAIC and Shanghai GM, began production in 2005. It builds engines for Chevrolet and Buick products manufactured by Shanghai GM. The facility has an annual capacity of 660,000 engines and 300,000 automatic transmissions.