Why are EcoBoost engines so efficient?

If you\'ve considered buying a fuel efficient car over the last four years the chances are that a Ford has been on your shortlist. One of the main reasons for this is EcoBoost, Ford\'s award winning engine that offers diesel like efficiency in a petrol engine. The EcoBoost is the 2012 International Engine of the Year. But, why is the EcoBoost engine so efficient? Keep reading to find out.

What happens under the bonnet

There are a lot of clever reasons why the EcoBoost engine is so efficient and why it is so loved by motoring experts. First, it produces an incredible amount of power given its size. The 1.0 litre is a three cylinder turbo but, according to Ford, can fit in the overhead luggage compartment of an aeroplane. The exhaust manifold is water-cooled to reduce the temperature under the bonnet and this saves fuel. In addition, the cambelt runs in an oil-bath to keep it silent and in tip-top condition for longer and the cooling jacket is divided in two, which gives you almost instantaneous cabin heat and allows the engine to warm-up faster. These and other technological advances mean that the EcoBoost engine is more than twice as efficient as a \'normal\' petrol engine. It is also worth mentioning that the EcoBoost engine has very low internal friction (the oil used is 0W/20, for example) and so it doesn\'t give a massive amount of engine braking. And, the engine is so small and light that the nose of the car feels noticeably lighter which, in turn, gives better handling and turn-in.

More reasons you should consider an EcoBoost engine

In 2013, there were more diesel than petrol cars sold in the UK. However, this proportion is set to shift as more drivers are choosing Ford\'s highly efficient petrol engines because they deliver similar performance and fuel economy to a diesel. The EcoBoost formula includes technology such as direct fuel injection, variable valve timing and turbocharging. Ford\'s approach relies on technology to deliver an efficiency and weight benefit without sacrificing power. EcoBoost engines replaced larger, simpler motors which are often no more powerful but are heavier and less efficient. Ford\'s lighter engines translate into not just better fuel economy, but improved vehicle dynamics, too. That\'s because lighter weight means swifter acceleration, better handling and a shorter braking distance.

An award winning engine

Ford\'s EcoBoost engine has many benefits and has also been recognised the world over by motoring experts. The 1.0 litre EcoBoost engine, which was designed and engineered in the UK, was named 2013 International Engine of the Year for the second year in a row, achieving the highest score in the 15-year history of the awards. A panel of 87 automotive journalists from 35 countries around the world judged the awards on driveability, performance, economy, refinement and the successful application of advanced engine technology. Ford was announced the winner at the annual event hosted by Engine Technology International magazine, where it also won "Best Engine Under 1.0-litre". "With a technology as mature as the internal combustion engine, it\'s very rare to achieve a true breakthrough, but that is exactly what the team accomplished with this engine," said Joe Bakaj, Ford Vice President, Global Powertrain. "You have to drive it to believe a small three-cylinder engine can deliver such performance and fuel economy."

Which cars can the EcoBoost Be found in?

Ford Fiesta - 1.0L EcoBoost either 100PS or 125PS. Ford Fiesta ST - 1.6L EcoBoost with 182PS. Ford B-Max - 1.0l EcoBoost 100PS. Ford Focus - 1.0L EcoBoost 100PS or 125PS & 1.6l EcoBoost 15