Ricardo to develop Foton’s 1-litre engine

Ricardo is to develop a Euro 6 1-litre gasoline engine for Foton with a view to competing with BMW, Ford and Volkswagen in the European market.

The contract is one of two Ricardo has signed with Beiqi Foton Motor Co. Ltd., more commonly known by the brand name Foton.

Beiqi Foton Motor designs and manufactures commercial vehicles, including medium and heavy-duty trucks, light-duty trucks, vans, pickups, and buses, and is one of China’s largest and most diversified manufacturers in this sector.

The first contract covers a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on strategic cooperation in powertrain products development between Foton and Ricardo UK Ltd.

The scope of the MoU includes vehicle platform planning, new technology research and analysis methods, new product development, powertrain integration and calibration support, troubleshooting and technology transfer.

In addition to the MoU, a service contract between Foton and Ricardo Shanghai Co. Ltd will see the two companies develop a 1-litre gasoline engine.

Through this, Ricardo will help Foton improve engine efficiency and meet new emissions and fuel consumptions standards in China. This engine is aimed at meeting EU6 emissions regulations and is seen as an important product in enabling Foton meet the new China stage 4 fuel economy regulations.

Ricardo will review Foton’s design with relevant simulation based activities, carrying out mechanical and performance and emissions development, and applying a particular focus upon evaluating NVH aspects.

Ricardo chief executive officer Dave Shemmans said: “These two contracts demonstrate Ricardo’s unique ability to provide the skills, experience and expertise of our global network of technical centres headquartered in the UK, while providing local delivery through our expanding presence in China.  I look forward to a long and mutually beneficial strategic partnership between Ricardo and Foton.”

Since its formation 18 years ago, Foton has focused on the business of vehicle production.

Mr. Wang Jinyu, Foton’s general manager added: “While we are already very successful in the Chinese market, Foton aims to become one of the world’s leading international brands for commercial vehicles and transport solutions.  The strategic partnership with Ricardo and first engineering contract signed today are thus important in helping Foton realize these international ambitions for growth.”