The car giant started by marrying the daughter of the king

Chapter 466 V8 engine, creating a world record

Building new factories is nothing new for BMW Group.

As long as the general direction is determined, Jiang Hui does not need to follow the specific content.

He focuses more of his energy on the development of various new products within the company.

If you do a good job in R&D, sales will be easy.

After all, only when the product is competitive enough can it sell better.

"Mr. Jiang, the tests of the first batch of our V8 engine prototypes have been completed, and the conditions in all aspects are better than expected."

As the general manager of Nanshan Engine, Hu Shuiwen has been focusing on the development of the V8 engine during this period.

This is the most critical project of Nanshan Engine.

Although Jiang Hui had already used the structure of the classic 8L V5.5 engine developed by Toyota in the 8s when designing the V engine.

However, it is still very difficult to actually implement it.

Especially for China in this era.

Fortunately, Nanshan Engine has accumulated a wealth of experience in engine production in the past few years and has also introduced various advanced machining equipment, forging and die-casting equipment.

Otherwise, it would not be easy to produce such a large-displacement engine smoothly.

As long as a certain part does not meet the design requirements of the drawing, there will be a big difference in the final performance.

“What are the specific performance parameters?”

Although it is not yet the final mass-produced product, it is also very critical.

Jiang Hui wanted to know the status of the first prototype.

"The current prototype has a maximum power of 361 horsepower at 5600 rpm."

"The maximum torque is 524 Nm at 3600 rpm."

“However, combined with some subsequent improvements to parts, we should be able to achieve our design goals when we go into mass production.”

When Hu Shuiwen talked about these parameters, his face was full of pride.

An engine with such performance is definitely comparable to any international automobile giant.

The most important thing is that this engine is Nanshan Engine’s first electronic fuel injection engine.

It's normal for him to be a little proud after achieving such brilliant results right from the start.

Jiang Hui nodded, a satisfied smile appeared on his face, but he soon returned to his serious expression. He knew that the success of the prototype was only the first step, and the real challenge was still to come.

"361 horsepower and 524 Nm of torque, really good."

"But this is just the beginning. We need to ensure that the performance of the engine after mass production is not only stable but also meets the design goals."

"Mr. Hu, which parts are you going to optimize next?"

Any OEM that develops an engine needs to constantly adjust the structure of some parts.

Through various tests and adjustments, the engine's performance is improved and eventually reaches mass production.

The design of an engine is more difficult than that of a complete vehicle.

“Based on the problems found in the test, I think there is still some room for improvement in the design of the intake and exhaust systems.”

“By optimizing the valve timing and intake port shape, we expect to be able to increase maximum power to around 380 horsepower.”

“Also, the tuning of the fuel injection system could be a little more refined.”

“This will not only increase power output, but also further improve fuel economy.”

Hu Shuiwen has good skills, and he has also gained a lot of experience by participating in the development of many engines including 1.5L and 2.5L in recent years.

Now in many places Jiang Hui does not need to explain the problems in detail, he can lead the team to improve them.

“How is fuel economy performing right now?”

"In the future, consumers will pay more and more attention to this data. The success of Japanese automakers in the United States depends on fuel economy."

Hu Shuiwen is very familiar with the details of this V8 engine.

He didn't even need to look up the information in his hand to answer Jiang Hui's question directly, "According to the data from the simulated working condition test of the current prototype on the bench, the fuel consumption under comprehensive working conditions is about 13.5L/100km."

"It can reach 10L/100km when cruising at high speed."

“We plan to improve the control logic of the VVT-i system by optimizing the combustion chamber design.”

“Reduce the comprehensive fuel consumption to below 13L/100km.”

"In this way, our engines will not only lead in power, but also compete with those of international manufacturers in terms of fuel economy."

As a large-displacement engine, this fuel consumption data is absolutely excellent.

This is without using turbocharging.

In the future, we can further develop turbocharged models, bringing Nanshan Engine's strength to a higher level.

"This data basically achieves our design goal."

“The balance between fuel economy and power performance is the key point we must grasp.”

"It may not be powerful, but its fuel consumption is also very high. There is not much market for it."

"Our V8 engine will be used not only on the Chitu model, but also on Land Rover's large SUVs and Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedans."

Jiang Hui obviously has high expectations for the V8 engine.

If BMW Group wants to produce some high-end models, it must increase the engine displacement.

Look at those models that are priced over a million, how many of them are not large-displacement?

To a certain extent, a large displacement is roughly equivalent to a luxury car.

In other words, a large displacement may not mean a luxury car, but a high-end luxury car must be a large displacement car.

At least that's the case in this era.

“I understand, so we not only focus on performance parameters, but also attach great importance to the reliability of the engine.”

“Our engine not only has outstanding performance, but it can also stand the test of time and various extreme environments.”

After Hu Shuiwen said this, Jiang Hui immediately asked: "Has the durability test been completed?"

In later generations, some car companies developed new models within just one year.

In this case, there is simply not enough time to carry out durability testing.

They transformed cars from traditional durable goods into so-called high-tech products, and into consumer goods like mobile phones.

I think consumers will sell the car after a few years anyway, so durability is no longer a particularly important parameter.

Jiang Hui does not quite agree with this idea.

A car should be driven for at least 15 years, if not for decades.

Only in this way can you be qualified.

But it is actually not easy to achieve this.

The most important thing is that the engine cannot fail.

As long as there is no major problem with the engine, everything will be fine.

"We have already started rigorous durability testing."

"The current prototype has shown good stability in extreme environments such as high temperature, high humidity and high altitude."

"Based on the preliminary test results, the design life of the engine can easily exceed 30 kilometers, or even reach 50 kilometers."

"Next, we will conduct more extreme tests to ensure that every mass-produced engine can meet or even exceed this standard."

For most people, the annual driving mileage does not exceed 2 kilometers.

If it is 15 years, it will not exceed 30 kilometers.

Even many people only drive 1 kilometers a year, so a design life of 30 kilometers is enough to cause a car to be scrapped.

Not to mention that it is still working towards a design life of 50 kilometers.

In later generations, basically only Toyota and Honda's engines can achieve this level of durability performance.

"Engine reliability is the foundation of our long-term development, and we must not let our guard down in the slightest."

"In addition, emission standards also need to be fully considered."

"Now that the environmental protection requirements in America and Europe are getting higher and higher, we must ensure that this engine can also meet the most stringent standards in terms of emissions."

Jiang Hui was deeply impressed by the various emission standards.

后世欧1、欧2、欧3一直到欧6和欧7标准，对华夏汽车行业的影响是非常深远的。

Although the Euro 1 standard was not officially implemented until January 1993, 1.

But the specific requirements have been basically clarified.

The carbon monoxide (CO) emission limit for gasoline vehicles is 2.72g/km.

The combined emission limit of hydrocarbons (HC) + nitrogen oxides (NOx) is 0.97g/km.

To meet this standard, automobile manufacturers are basically required to adopt exhaust treatment technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and three-way catalytic converters to reduce the emission of harmful substances.

Jiang Hui estimates that Europe will soon launch the Euro 1 standard based on Euro 2, and the requirements will be even higher at that time.

Jiang Hui plans to use Nanshan Engine's V8 engine for more than 20 years.

Although there will be continuous upgrades in the middle, the main structure will not change.

“In terms of emissions, we have already met the Euro 1 standard, with CO emissions and HC emissions below the standard.”

"In the future, our various engines will gradually switch to electronic fuel injection engines to ensure that all BMW Group products can meet emission regulations in Europe and the United States."

Hu Shuiwen is now considered one of the most internationally-minded engine talents in China.

Except for Nanshan Engine, all other engine manufacturers have not yet considered the regulations related to European and American emission regulations.

In China, even discussions on emission regulations are almost non-existent.

According to normal historical development, China did not require all newly registered vehicles to comply with the National 2001 standard until July 7, 1.

The National 1 standard is basically the same as the Euro 1 standard.

However, its implementation was delayed by nearly 10 years.

Of course, the more actively these things are implemented, the better.

In fact, after reaching National Level 4, Jiang Hui felt that China was overly active in pushing for National Level 5 and National Level 6 requirements.

Especially the National VI requirements, which were introduced just a few years after National V.

As a result, apart from increasing business for a few international auto parts giants, the impact of actual emission reduction is very limited.

When it comes to the National V level, emissions from passenger cars are no longer the main source of environmental pollution.

A truck that emits black smoke emits more pollutants than 1000 National 5 sedans.

However, the implementation of emissions for commercial vehicles has always been unsatisfactory.

The reasons behind this are also very complicated.

"The V8 engine will be our Nanshan Engine's most advanced product in the next few years, and its performance in all aspects must be the best."

"To a certain extent, this V8 engine is not just a product, it represents the technological level and brand image of our Nanshan Engine."

"We want to use it to prove to the world that engines made in China can also stand at the top of the world."

"We want to create not only a record in the history of Chinese automobile engines, but also a record in the history of world automobile engines."

Jiang Hui obviously has more expectations for the V8 engine than for other engines. Although this V8 engine is not the first engine in the world, it is the one that can make it the most classic in the world.

If this goal is really achieved, the meaning will be very different.

"Mr. Jiang, don't worry, we will definitely make the V8 engine a classic."

“When new models equipped with Chitu are launched next year, they will surely shock the entire automotive industry.”

"Then let everyone know that we in China can also produce high-end cars."

Hu Shuiwen is very clear about the positioning of Chitu Automobile.

This is definitely the high-end brand of the BMW Group.

The first product is a high-end four-door coupe-style model equipped with a 5.5L V8 engine. Its price will be directly comparable to the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series.

Although everyone’s positioning is different, the price is similar.

To a certain extent, they are comparable.

As long as this model is successful, it will not be difficult for subsequent products of the BMW Group to break through.

For example, Toyota in later generations can not only produce models priced from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands, but also high-end products priced at millions.

Several brands of the BMW Group also play a similar role.

……

"Mr. Jiang, I think when the time comes for the Chitu Panamera to be equipped with a 5.5L V8 engine, we can consider not cooperating with GM."

“Directly sold by our own team around the world.”

Chen Chenxing naturally knew that Nanshan Engine had made such a great breakthrough.

As the head of the sales department, he also has some ideas of his own.

BMW Group's main sales volume now comes from its cooperation with General Motors.

This has advantages, but the disadvantages are also obvious.

Chen Chenxing did not dare to change the situation easily.

But it is still possible to make some attempts on the Chitu brand.

After all, this car is a high-end model and its sales volume is relatively low.

Its products have a lot of performance that can be promoted.

In this way, it will be relatively easier to promote it as an independent brand around the world.

After all, at this price, there are still some consumers who care about performance.

Otherwise, models like the Civic TYPE R wouldn’t be able to be sold.

“There will definitely be no problem if other places don’t cooperate with GM.”

"But if we don't cooperate with GM in the American market, then we will have to communicate with dealers on our own, and our efficiency will probably be greatly reduced."

“In the short term, sales volume is unlikely to catch up to the effect of the cooperation with General Motors.”

Jiang Hui didn't want to give money to General Motors.

He is more aware of the nature of Americans.

It is absolutely unacceptable for a Chinese car company to be thriving in America.

Don't be fooled by their righteous appearance at ordinary times. Once their own interests are involved, the situation is completely different.

When you are very weak, people are willing to behave well and be civilized, as if you are very cultured.

But when you become powerful, others will tear off their disguise as civilized people and start using all kinds of disgusting means to deal with you.

I guess not many people in China are aware of this.

In the eyes of many people, America at this time is like a beacon.

In other words, Jiang Hui totally despises it.

"Sales volume will definitely be affected in the short term."

“But high-end coupes and sports cars are not GM’s strengths.”

"Even if we cooperate with GM, we can't achieve the sales effect of Land Rover's products."

Chen Chenxing was obviously prepared to stick to his opinion.

He felt a little uncomfortable that such a good product could not have its own logo.

In particular, he went on a business trip to the United States some time ago, and then conducted a special investigation to understand the American consumer's awareness of Buick Highlander, Buick G-Series SUVs and Chevrolet X-Series pickup trucks.

See if consumers know that these models are the products of a collaboration between General Motors and BMW Group.

As a result, no consumer knew about this.

This completely overturned Chen Chenxing's cognition.

He originally thought that at least 10% or 20% of consumers would know about it, right?

The result was that none was found.

Of course, this is definitely related to the scope of the investigation.

It is certainly not possible that no consumer actually knows this information.

But to some extent, this survey proves that American consumers are more ignorant than we imagined.

It is said that American consumers are the most mature and cultured...

That turned out to be not the case at all.

"What you said is not completely unreasonable."

"If you want to try it, it's not impossible."

"But you have to be careful of American auto companies causing trouble."

Jiang Hu thought about it for a moment and felt that this was not a very critical issue.

If Chen Chenxing wants to persist, then let’s give it a try.

It’s a good opportunity to see whether the Chitu brand can rise independently in all markets around the world.

If Chitu can do it, then Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz can consider giving it a try.

……

“Is this the 5.5L V8 engine you guys made?”

Zhu Jiansheng comes to Shenzhen to inspect work every year.

This year is no exception.

But the situation this time is a little different, he is here to scout the way.

Next month, leaders from higher levels will visit Lingnan Province, Shanghai and other major coastal cities.

According to what Zhu Jiansheng revealed, many controversies will begin to change after this inspection.

According to Jiang Hui's speculation, many things that would not be made clear until 1992 in the previous life can now be brought forward to this year.

This is undoubtedly a great thing for the BMW Group.

“Yes, judging from the current situation, the global automotive market has an increasing demand for high-performance and high-reliability power systems.”

"Our company needs large-displacement engines to support the development of more models."

“This 5.5L V8 engine adopts the classic 90-degree cylinder angle design. This structure not only ensures the smoothness of engine operation, but also provides ideal space for the layout of key components.”

“The combination of cast iron cylinder block and aluminum alloy cylinder head achieves lightweight design while ensuring structural strength.”

“The 4-valve valve mechanism per cylinder, combined with the dual overhead camshaft DOHC design, ensures the engine’s intake and exhaust efficiency.”

Jiang Hui personally explained his own products to Zhu Jiansheng.

All the main structures were designed under the personal guidance of Jiang Hui, so he was naturally very clear about the specific situation.

“This engine uses a sequential multi-point electronic fuel injection system to precisely control fuel injection.”

“Combined with the intelligent variable valve timing system, it achieves a perfect balance between power output and fuel economy.”

“The unique intake manifold design improves the engine’s intake efficiency by optimizing the airflow path.”

“The cooling system adopts a cross-flow design, with a large-capacity water pump and an intelligent temperature control system.”

“Ensures the engine maintains optimal operating temperature under all operating conditions.”

“The lubrication system adopts a full-flow filtration design and a variable displacement oil pump to provide reliable lubrication for the engine.”

When explaining something to professionals, it is natural to speak in a more professional way.

Zhu Jiansheng initially led the projects of the Hummer military vehicle and the intercontinental ballistic missile launcher, and was also the first academician in China's automotive industry.

Well, now it’s called academician.

His professionalism is absolutely reliable.

"It seems that there is a reason why the performance parameters of your engine can reach such an ideal level."

"With such a complex structural design, the processing of many parts will be very challenging, right?"

Zhu Jiansheng is very clear that design is design and production is production.

Just because you can design it doesn’t mean you can produce it well.

This involves the selection of materials and the arrangement of processing technology, and is closely related to production equipment.

For example, if there are no high-precision machine tools, the processing accuracy of the cylinder block and cylinder head will definitely not be up to standard.

This will eventually affect the performance of the engine.

For example, the crankshaft is one of the core components of the engine, responsible for converting the linear motion of the piston into rotational motion while bearing huge alternating loads and torques.

Its main machining accuracy requirements include the roundness and cylindricity of the journal, the surface roughness of the journal, the dimensional tolerance and dynamic balancing accuracy of the journal.

If the dynamic balancing accuracy of the crankshaft is insufficient, the engine will vibrate violently during operation.

The consequence is reduced comfort and increased noise inside the car.

In addition, long-term vibration will accelerate the wear of other engine parts, such as bearings, cylinder blocks, pistons, etc., and even cause component breakage.

If the roundness, cylindricity or surface roughness of the journal does not meet the standards, it will cause uneven friction between the journal and the bearing.

The wear of the journal and bearing increases, and in severe cases may cause the journal to "burn".

If the dimensional tolerance or surface roughness does not meet the standards, it will affect the formation of the lubricating oil film.

Poor lubrication will lead to increased frictional heat, further increasing wear.

In severe cases, it may cause the engine to "pull the cylinder" or "seize the shaft", resulting in the engine suddenly stalling or even being scrapped.

There are other issues such as power loss etc.

In the past, China's automobile engine technology only gradually caught up after 2010, because the processing accuracy of many parts could not keep up with the level of international automobile giants.

Many parts appear to have been processed to look the same to the naked eye, but in reality they are completely different.

For example, the dimensional tolerance of the shaft neck, some products of international manufacturers usually require it to be within ±0.01mm.

The surface roughness is required to have an Ra value between 0.2-0.4μm.

None of these dimensions are easy to achieve.

(End of this chapter)