Introducing Ford Duratec SCi engine range

Ford of Europe will start production of a new generation of engines featuring Direct-Injection Spark-Ignition (DISI) petrol engine technology before the end of 2003.  The new range will be launched with the name Duratec SCi – for 'Smart Charge injection’.

The new range of advanced petrol engines will incorporate diesel-inspired direct fuel injection and small engine displacements to deliver uncompromised performance and low fuel consumption.  The range will include some turbocharged derivatives, including the 1.1-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged unit showcased at Geneva. This unit was also shown at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show, alongside the Fusion Concept vehicle as a hint of possible future applications.

For the busy urban motorist, the Duratec SCi engine is designed to provide the performance feel of a larger displacement engine without sacrificing fuel economy.  Where fitted, the small turbocharger increases torque output and expands the usable range of the torque band.  Variable cam timing helps to ensure the robustly low fuel consumption and efficient emissions levels.

"Our Duratec SCi range will transfer direct-injection principles first seen on diesel engines to a range of small, light petrol engines," said Martin Leach. "This is a prime example of how Ford's vision of incorporating practical and advanced engineering concepts in our new products is being realised through our transformation strategy", he added.

Further technical details of the Duratec SCi range of engines, and the individual vehicles they are to power, will be released closer to launch.