New Ducati Testastretta DVT Engine with Variable Valve Timing
Ducati as announced a new Testastretta DVT engine, which utilizes variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. The system continuously adjusts intake and exhaust valve timing independently of each other, optimizing engine power through the rev range while at the same time improving fuel efficiency.Ducati claims that the new Testastretta DVT engine is the first variable valve timing for motorcycles that operates both camshafts; while the press material does not mention a specific motorcycle that the new Testastretta DVT engine will be fitted in, the Ducati Multistrada 1200 is likely the prime candidate. The bore and stroke measurements are identical to the Ducati Multistrada 1200's at 106 x 67.9mm.
Testastretta DVT retains Ducati's trademark desmodromic actuation of the valves, with two sparkplugs per cylinder. Each camshaft has a hydraulic actuator as part of the cam belt pulley; the actuator can rotate inside the pulley housing, advancing or retarding that camshaft's timing as needed and changing the amount of valve overlap. The timing advance or retard is controlled by varying oil pressure inside the actuator, which in turn is controlled by dedicated valves and the ECU.
Peak power for the new Testastretta DVT engine is listed as 160 horsepower at 9,500rpm, up from 150 horsepower on the current Ducati Multistrada, and the DVT engine makes 136Nm of torque compared to 125Nm for the current Ducati Multistrada. Ducati also claims an 8 percent improvement in fuel economy, and the new Testastretta DVT engine is compliant with Euro 4 emissions standards that take effect in Europe at the start of 2016.
