Despite the rush for electrification, BMW believes that traditional engines still have some room to evolve. As such, the German brand recently patented a new combustion system that they designed to improve on their cars’ fuel efficiency, reduce their emissions, and enhance engine performance. It’s safe to say that BMW is far from finished with internal combustion technology. At the heart of BMW’s new system is a clever twist on an existing concept: pre-chamber combustion. This technology was originally used in older diesel engines, but now BMW has reimagined it for modern gasoline powertrains. The key difference lies in how the combustion process is managed. They’ve redesigned the ignition system, and so in this way BMW’s engineers have found a way to improve efficiency without sacrificing power. The patent, officially registered with the European Patent Office in August 2024, details a new ignition chamber that works alongside the main combustion process. This pre-chamber has what seems like tiny openings that allow for controlled amounts of the fuel-air mixture to enter. When ignited, this mixture produces a more efficient burn, which in turn, leads to better fuel economy and lower emissions.
It’s basically just a smarter way to burn fuel
Traditional gasoline engines rely on spark plugs to ignite fuel in the combustion chamber. But history has shown that this process isn’t always perfect. In many cases, fuel doesn’t burn completely, leading to wasted energy and even increased emissions. So BMW’s new system addresses this issue by making sure that combustion happens in a more controlled way. One of the main features of this patent is a specially designed spark plug. Unlike standard spark plugs, which use a single ignition point, this new design includes separate ignition and ground electrodes. This setup now helps to improve heat dissipation, prevents overheating, and eliminates unwanted ignitions that could damage the engine.
Why does this matter for drivers?
For everyday drivers, this breakthrough could mean small but definitely noticeable improvements in their car’s fuel efficiency. Fuel costs are forever rising and there is even stricter emissions laws now, so automakers are under pressure to make engines cleaner and more economical. BMW’s new approach could help achieve these goals, at the same time still keeping the driving experience exciting.
The benefits don’t just stop at saving fuel though. By optimizing how fuel burns, BMW’s system can also help enhance engine power. In this way, drivers could enjoy a more responsive performance without needing a bigger engine. This is great news for those who still love the feel of a traditional combustion engine but want better efficiency.
One of the most exciting aspects of this technology is that it is quite versatile (just like this little engine). BMW made sure it designed it to work with various engine sizes, from small three-cylinder units to high-performance V8s. This flexibility means the technology could be used across BMW’s entire lineup, from compact cars to the more powerful SUVs it has.
Even as electric vehicles gain popularity, combustion engines are not disappearing anytime soon. Many regions, like South Africa, which is still in the midst of an energy crisis, still lack the infrastructure needed for full electrification. So hybrid vehicles remain a key part of the transition.
BMW’s new system could bridge the gap
So BMW has secured the patent, but the big question still remains: will this technology will appear in future models? Automakers often patent ideas that never make it to production. But BMW’s seems to be commied to improving combustion engines, so yes, this one has a strong chance of becoming reality.
If BMW integrates this system into upcoming models, it could set a new standard for internal combustion efficiency. Competing brands may even look to develop similar solutions.
What does the future of BMW’s combustion engines look like?
This patent (much like this Ferarri one) proves that BMW is not ready to write-off traditional engines just yet. While the world moves toward electric mobility, the company is wants to find way to make its combustion engines relevant for as long as possible.