Downsizing, down speeding and hybridization are becoming a standard in the automotive industry. This paper was initiated to answer Automobili Lamborghini R&D's question: what does downsizing mean In technical literature downsizing is often referred to as reducing displacement and, sometimes, cylinders. Through a methodological approach, analysis and experimental activities Automobili Lamborghini, with FEV's support, shows that downsizing in terms of engine friction reduction means only reduction of displacement. Using the Aventador V12 6.5 liter engine as a baseline, two 4.3 liter engines were designed, a V8 and a V12.
The engine friction losses of these two engines were calculated all over the engine speed range and during the NEDC cycle utilizing a simulation tool and verified through FEV's “Strip-Method” database.
This approach gives us the holistic understanding on engine components design and which technologies should be introduced for the next Lamborghini engine generation.