The most important engine awards of the year, for us at least, are first the best performance engine, and second, the best green engine. We told you about Ferrari snatching the performance engine award, again, and as for the green engine title, well, that goes to Fiat and a CNG-powered version of their TwinAir two-cylinder turbo engine.
The petrol-powered TwinAir is one of the most acclaimed engine int the automotive world, not because of its fuel economy – it is actually not that frugal for a 0.9 liter unit – but the performance and the way it feels considering its tiny size.
The methane-powered bi-fuel TwinAir Turbo loses none of that charm, but cuts the CO2 emissions to an even lower level. This engine develops 80 PS and 140 NM of torque, and produces 86 g/km of CO2, a level among the lowest on the market. As for the fuel consumption, it uses just 3.1 kg of methane every 100 km.
Compared to the petrol TwinAir, the CNG version features different intake manifold, injectors, electronic engine control system and valve seats with specific geometry made of low-wear material. You can order this engine right now on the Fiat Panda and 500L Natural Power models as well as on the Lancia Ypsilon EcoChic.
