This presentation starts analyzing the rather unique conditions for the operation of snowmobile engines. Based on those conditions the specifications for the engine concept are explained. A historic overview is given showing the milestones in engine development since the beginning of commercially available snowmobiles in the early 1960's. This overview also lists the changed requirements from consumer side, which contributed to a big portion to the developement steps of snowmobile engines. Technical progress of the major development steps is shown, supported by some technical datas.
State of the art technology is described for a modern snowmobile engine of 2004 production. Using this engine as reference, future demands from market and legislation are discussed.
An outlook of „achievable” targets is presented. This is considering:
the historical development of snowmobile engines
where the industry stands today
existing or future expected legislation situation
customers expectations and finally
technical feasibilities and commercial aspects
The target of this paper is to help the snowmobile industry to draw the appropriate conclusions on technologies for the future.
