@GM: Buick Verano Pro to Feature GM’s All-New 1.5T Ecotec Engine

SHANGHAI – Buick has announced that the upcoming Verano Pro compact sedan will be the first model to adopt GM’s all-new 1.5-liter turbocharged Ecotec engine.

As the newest addition to GM’s eighth-generation Ecotec engine family, the 1.5T four-cylinder engine is built on GM’s global engine architecture with a modular design. It delivers world-class driving performance and refinement with a wide range of cutting-edge technologies to help lower fuel consumption and emissions, fulfilling the desire particularly of today’s younger generation of car buyers.

The new propulsion system coming on the Verano Pro generates a segment-leading 135 kW of maximum power and 250 Nm of peak torque at an engine speed of between 1,500 and 5,000 rpm. Paired with an advanced continuously variable transmission (CVT), it can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds, making it both responsive and fun to drive.

The new propulsion system improves fuel efficiency by 6% from the current generation, according to stringent WLTC testing conditions. It meets China’s National 6B emissions standard and delivers fuel consumption as low as 5.95 liters/100 kilometers.

The all-new 1.5T engine’s rewarding driving experience and competitive fuel economy come with a lineup of state-of-the-art engine technologies designed to optimize efficiency.

It is the first GM engine to adopt Dual Fast Cam Phasers, which enable the recirculation of oil flow to reduce the oil pump load and the adjustment of valve timing at a faster rate over a broader driving range compared to traditional cam phaser technology. The valve phasing system works in unison with the engine to provide excellent power and transient response while balancing fuel economy.

Other innovative features contributing to improved engine performance and optimized fuel efficiency include a single-scroll turbocharger with an electric wastegate, a 35MPa high-pressure side-injected direct injection (SIDI) fuel system, an off-axis continuously controlled variable oil pump and auto start/stop technology.

The engine’s active thermal management system leverages a cooling control valve and an electric water pump to intelligently control the flow of coolant. An integrated exhaust manifold and transmission heat exchanger helps to make smart use of the energy, enabling the heat energy to be used for increasing engine efficiency and even warming up the cabin.

The 1.5T engine’s strong performance is also underpinned by advanced software capabilities. The latest-generation ECM improves computing power by 14%, along with offering 33% more internal storage capability and enhanced safety. Incorporating pioneering technologies such as a neural network and deep learning, the engine has a more intelligent control system while supporting over-the-air updates based on GM’s available advanced VIP electric architecture.

Thanks to its efficient design, the engine features segment-leading refinement with reduced mass and exceptional noise, vibration and harshness performance. Distinct features and calibrations were implemented to reduce vibration when the engine is idling. Special attention was given to minimizing reciprocating mass by optimizing the design of the pistons to achieve the lowest possible dynamic imbalance. In addition, the combustion system was maximized to ensure smooth operation from idle to full throttle.  

The rollout of the all-new 1.5T engine will further broaden GM’s global powertrain portfolio, which also includes 2.0T, 1.3T and 1.0T variants of the Ecotec engine family. Depending on the vehicle model, the highly adaptive efficient engine can be mated with a nine-speed Hydra-Matic intelligent transmission or CVT while supporting a 48V mild hybrid system, and strong hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric systems. It will be deployed on a number of products across brands and segments in China in the coming years.

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