INSIGHT - FORD ECOBOOST
The defining trend that is ever more present in the world of racing and the automotive sector is the race for efficiency. Downsizing and bolting on turbochargers, from a layman’s perspective, is the movement that is sweeping both sectors, and is highly cost-effective in a lot of aspects that is not necessarily made public.
The EcoBoost technology that Ford uses in its efforts to reduce emissions, improve fuel economy and keep the driving experience is a major part of its philosophy, helping its customers to “Go Further,” as per the company’s strapline. It is already implemented in the Formula Ford championship as of last season and the World Rally Championship for the past two years, with both categories
using the 1.6-litre I4 configuration.
The engine used by Michael Shank Racing and Chip Ganassi Racing for the Rolex 24 at Daytona shows just how much development does go into these powerplants, especially when you consider it from an automotive perspective too. The 3.5-litre V6 twin-turbo unit that is now used in the Tudor United SportsCar Series replaced the normally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 and entered the prestigious event without any major testing, as well as having been breathed on by the Roush Yates Engines outfit, that prepped them ahead of the year.
It is rather impressive when engines that have air-aided assistance in the form of turbocharging shows off their statistics, as per claims from the manufacturers. A twenty percent reduction in emissions,
mage courtesy of Ford