Fiat's Japanese unit to launch fuel-efficient vehicles

Fiat’s Japanese unit is reportedly planning to launch an automatic transmission (AT) version of the Alfa Romeo MiTo car equipped with the new gasoline (petrol) “multi-air” engine, reports Asia Pulse. The engine, new to Japan, achieves higher fuel efficiency than earlier versions. Fiat’s multi-air system uses an electronically controlled hydraulic system to regulate valve timing and movement via the throttle valve, instead of the traditional fixed system. This reduces carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 10% and also improves fuel efficiency by almost 10%. (January 27, 2010)