A variable displacement oil pump that features in the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is able to deliver the precise amount of oil needed during all driving conditions meaning the engine can work less and save fuel.
The oil pump is a standard feature of the Cruze’s 1.4l Ecotec turbocharged engine. It reduces displacement during the engine warm up process and also during high speed conditions with the volume of oil from the pump varying along with the revs per minute by changing the displacement through a pivoting control chamber mechanism.
According to Mike Katerberg, the assistant chief engineer for the 1.4l Cruze engine, it is by lowering the volume of oil that the engine is able to reduce energy. He described it as a simple, durable and maintenance free design that has been used in the company’s transmissions for years and is also employed in its hybrid vehicles.
The 1.4l Ecotec turbo is standard on Eco, LT and LTZ models and helps the Cruze achieve an expected segment leading 40mpg.
In addition, the vehicle benefits from a front grill where an automatic air shutter system allows the car to change shape and cut through the air more smoothly. It uses sensors to feel and sense wind and temperature conditions and when the shutters are closed at high speeds, wind drag is reduced.
