Daihatsu Develops New 660cc Engine with Improved Environmental Performance, Power, and Quiet Operation

Nov. 22, 2005

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) announced today that it has developed the completely new KF engine, a 3-cylinder, 660cc engine with improved environmental performance, power, and quiet operation. Beginning in December this year, minivehicles launched in Japan will be fitted with the new engine.

This KF engine will be the backbone of next-generation minivehicles. While being lighter and more compact than earlier engines, it boasts advancements in intrinsic engine functions -- higher fuel efficiency, lower exhaust emissions, and a more powerful drive.

The new KF engine features:

Higher fuel efficiency: 10% improvement*1

  • Long piston stroke to produce higher combustion efficiency
  • Comprehensive reduction in mechanical loss and weight

Lower exhaust emissions: Achieves world leading environmental performance level

  • DVVT (Dynamic Variable Valve Timing) System
  • Catalyst Early Activation System, which detects the ionic current in the combustion chambers to begin purifying exhaust emissions immediately following engine start-up
  • State-of-the-art Super Intelligent Catalyst in which all precious metals regenerate on their own, maintaining a high level of exhaust emissions-cleaning performance

A more powerful drive: 5% improvement*1 in torque at low/medium-speeds (regular speed range)

  • Long piston stroke

Lightweight and compact: 25% reduction*1 in weight for a class*2 leading weight of 47kg

  • Weight reduction through the use of an aluminum cylinder block and resin materials
  • Compact design through the use of a modular chain cover, etc.

Quiet operation: 30% reduction*1 in generated noise

  • Weight reduction
  • Enhanced rigidity of all engine parts
  • Component improvements to reduce frictional resistance

*1 : Compared to Daihatsu's conventional EF engine
*2 : 660cc minivehicle engine class. As of October 2005

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