This new technology could be available by 2008; computer-controlled valve events that could vary overlap, duration, and lift depending on speed and power requirements. All the auto majors, and the recip aircraft engine mfg.'s as well are working on it. Fuel economy and torque increases as high as 20% over conventional mechanical cams, as well as a lot less wear and tear on internals are promised.

THATS GONNA BE PRICEY !!!!!!!!!!

Built a prototype years ago using electric solenoids to open the valves and a computer to control timing and duration. Never got to the lift part because we couldnt find funding. Oh well, another million or so lost. It was bound to happen.

Ever wonder how they open and close the valves on a Grand Prix Formula One engine at 19,600 rpm? That's how!

Some of the F-! engines don't have valve springs, they use an air powered system to act as springs. One team had full mechanical (desmodromic) valve system like a Ducati.

This electronic system looks interesting, but is it RPM limited? I mean, imagine how fast and how often the valves have to open to run at 6K or 7K rpm. I assume this works on a electromagnetic solenoid pricipal. Could the magnets energize/de-energize that fast?

I heard that Renault is working on an F1 engine that utilizes the above technology.
Brownie, I am not sure it is implemented as of yet, in F1.
If you have info, please share.

1. $$$ ?
2. Reliability? (32 of these in a typical V-8 per the shown config.)

Throttleless and camless engines are definately coming.The CARB standards are pushing the entire industry this way. In responce to Iggy's question,yes they can.Think fuel injector.It energises and de energises at the rate the valve actuators will need to.
Current F1 engines use camshafts with pneumatic valve springs.

Formula 1 IS using and has been using for quite a while that technology.
I believe it is electronic. I have an article about it. I'll look for it tonight. Variable valve timing , lift on the fly. Also I believe the intake runners and exhaust shortens and lengthens on the fly !!
How do you think they are making 1000hp on 1.5 litres ? At 20,000 rpm. We are talking SERIOUS technology and money here.

Imagine all that on a 600ci engine !?!?!?

I just did a search one F1 engines and couldn't come up with too much.

the Ferrari V10 has 40 valves and and a max RPM of
19000rpm's and makes 835hp naturally aspirated.
they talk about he engines in the previous years and the last time they mention camshafts was 1999

I work For Robert Bosch as an Automotive Instructor. I will tell you camless Diesel are not that far off. As for the Gas... well you are looking a direct injection next ( just like a Diesel with very high fuel psi). It is already heavy in Europe. With DI system they can do a lean burn and reduce Emissions. NOX is the big one and spikes when you get out of the .99 to 1.0 lambda window ( Lambda= to 14.7:1 air/ fuel) but starts to fall just before 1.05 lambda. And when you get up into a 22 to 32:1 Air fuel ratios it is really cleaned up and better fuel economy
MikeW