Jaguar Cars has designed and developed an all new V8 engine, the AJ V8. The engine's first application was in the XK8 sports car which went on sale in October 1996. The design and development of the engine, which resulted in an engine of both compact dimensions and high specific output are described. The high standards expected of engines in Jaguar's class have been met in terms of refinement and reliability, whilst the low emissions from the engine allow the XK8 meet all current world wide legislation.
The engine is a 90° V8, quad cam, 32 valve engine with an aluminium structure. The class leading performance results from the use of appropriate technology and attention to detail. Peak power of 216 kW from an engine weighing 200 kg is combined with a peak BMEP of 12.35 Bar and over 10 Bar at 1500 RPM. Maximising the stiffness of the engine structure and minimising of the weight of the reciprocating and rotating components have helped to deliver both low noise and vibration levels.
Low emissions and fuel usage are achieved through the use of a compact, high compression combustion system, low friction levels and an innovative cooling system. Design and development of the engine was carried out by a dedicated cross-functional project team working at a systems level. Extensive use was made of supplier expertise both to optimise the efficiency of the team and to maximise the benefits of supplier experience. Early supplier selection was carried out with the participation of the manufacturing team starting during the concept design stage. Particular attention has been paid to the robustness of the design and minimising variability.
