BorgWarner Supplies VCT Tech for New Subaru Boxer Engines

BorgWarner has announced it will supply its latest advancements in Cam Torque Actuated (CTA) variable cam timing (VCT) technology for the new Subaru boxer engine line-up. According to the official figures released by the Japanese carmaker, the 2.5- and 2.0-liter units come with improve fuel economy of 6 percent and 10 percent,respectively, while also meeting US Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) and Euro 5 emissions regulations.

The 2.0-liter engine introduces BorgWarner's CTA technology with a new mid position lock, an innovation that was a finalist in the 2011 Automotive News PACE Awards. The technology defaults at an intermediate position to allow for a greater range of travel and more control over airflow to improve fuel economy, function and efficiency. Launched on the Forester, the new boxer engines are expected to become Subaru's main powertrains.

"BorgWarner continues to demonstrate product leadership with breakthroughs in VCT technology. Our innovations give engine designers more precise control over intake and exhaust valve timing for better fuel economy and lower emissions without sacrificing performance. We are very pleased to contribute our technologies to the all-new Subaru boxer engine," said James Verrier, President and General Manager, BorgWarner Morse TEC.

Unlike traditional cam phasing methods, which use pressure of the engine oil to phase the camshaft, BorgWarner's CTA makes use of the existing torsional energy in the valve train, in a similar way to a hydraulic ratchet. CTA cam phasers operate more quickly and under a wider range of engine speeds and temperatures than traditional oil pressure actuated cam phasers, enabling engines to run more efficiently and at all engine speeds with faster response.