What does VVL engine mean?
2 Answers
VVL engine stands for Variable Valve Lift, which is a system that changes the opening degree of the valves. While variable valve timing systems adjust the timing of valve opening and closing, variable valve lift alters the extent of valve opening. In traditional gasoline engines, the valve lift is fixed and unchangeable, meaning the camshaft has only one cam profile. This limitation prevents the engine from achieving optimal performance in both high-speed and low-speed ranges. The valve lift and cam profile in conventional gasoline engines are designed as a compromise for balanced performance across all operating conditions. The adoption of VVL technology allows the engine to achieve the required valve lift in both high-speed and low-speed ranges, thereby improving high-speed power and low-speed torque.
I've driven many cars before and encountered VVL engine technology. Its full name is Variable Valve Lift, which simply means the engine's valves can automatically adjust their opening height based on RPM. At low RPM, the valves open smaller to save fuel; at high RPM, they open wider to boost power, making driving noticeably smoother especially when climbing hills or overtaking. Nissan's older models used this technology extensively, delivering a smoother and quieter driving experience compared to conventional engines, without sudden jerks. This technology originated in the 1990s and later evolved into part of today's Variable Valve Timing (VVT), optimizing response speed. If your car has VVL, pay attention to oil quality during maintenance, as sludge buildup could affect valve operation. While long-term fuel efficiency is a benefit, it's worth investing in good oil. As an experienced car owner, I believe such intelligent controls are the trend, making vehicles more adaptable to different road conditions.
