Rheinmetall has received an order from an English sports car manufacturer for full-scale production of V8 cylinder engine blocks.
The two companies are jointly developing new, high-efficiency engine blocks for the automaker’s complete line of V8 engines. Featuring an hp output bordering on four digits, these engines are also extremely efficient in everyday operation. In the runup to the order, Rheinmetall had already developed and produced the casting technology for the prototypes. It has now received the go-ahead for full-scale production.
Production begins in Neckarsulm and Langenhagen at the end of 2024
Production begins at the end of 2024. Rheinmetall’s plant in Neckarsulm will take care of casting and the cylinder liner coating, with final processing of the engine blocks due to take place in Langenhagen. Assembly of the engine blocks will thus be performed by a single company, assuring problem-free subsequent processing by the OEM.
Series production of V8 cylinderengine blocks for the entire model portfolio
“The strategic significance for the long-term viability of our internal combustion business unit of this new order – particularly from this automaker – cannot be overstated. We’re operating a “last man standing” strategy here and have long-standing experience in the field”, declares managing director Dr Michael Schachler. In the words of company spokesman Ralph Lintz, “First and foremost, it was KS Huayu’s technological expertise and the high quality of our coating and finishing that won the customer’s trust following completion of the prototypes, leading to the full-scale production order. This also highlights the outstanding development skills of our prototype constructors.”
Innovative new casting method assures high flexibility for maximum efficiency
The newly ordered engine blocks will be produced using the sand-casting method. This is an innovative new casting procedure developed at Neckarsulm for producing highly integrated cast parts that combine maximum geometric freedom with optimized weight. This casting method also meets the steadily increasing requirements of automakers for temperature resilience and component stability when comes to materials, resulting in maximum efficiency.