Porsche combustion engine innovations – despite the upcoming ban
25 October 2024
On Monday 21st October the USPTO granted a patent for a six-stroke internal combustion engine to Porche SE, part of the Volkswagen Group. We investigated why anyone would file such a patent when there will be a ban on all new production of petrol and diesel engines from 2035.
The USPTO decision to grant made Internal Combustion Engines topical once again. Ben Palmer, a Partner and Patent Attorney in our Automotive sector group suggests that this innovation aligns with Porsche’s investment in e-fuels. At the moment, e-fuels are estimated to be around double the cost of green hydrogen to produce. The fuel is currently thought to be so expensive, that it could limit innovation in this space. Costs are certain to come down but likely not to the extent that there will be parity with petrol. According to Porsche, the new six-stroke engine increases power output per stroke and combustion efficiency per gramme of fuel, and so could reduce the cost gap with petrol engines. The German Government has already negotiated an exemption for e-fuels from the ICE ban in 2035. So e-fuels are now a viable part of Porsche’s strategy in addition to the hydrogen ICE and EVs under development by Porsche
In conclusion, this patent demonstrates that innovation in Internal Combustion Engines is still relevant and occurring despite the 2035 ban. We will watch Porches’ progress with interest.
If you’re innovating in this space, please get in touch with our specialist Automotive group.
Ben Palmer
Advanced Engineering group
This publication is a general summary of the law. It should not replace legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
© Withers & Rogers LLP October 2024
