A new layout for internal combustion engines

zero_offset writes: A certain sector of the geek world is into cars and motorcycles, and what could be more newsworthy and exciting than a whole new layout for the internal combustion engine? The NEVIS Engine Company has taken on a task that The Red Herring describes as downright Sisyphean: reinventing the venerable internal combustion engine to dramatically improve efficiency and reduce emissions. We've heard that claim before, but this engine, using the new "Bortone cycle," is a complete re-think of the typical four-stroke piston-in-cylinder internal combustion process. They are claiming twice the efficiency of a standard Otto cycle engine. Their prototype is producing 250 HP at 2000 RPM from a 1 liter 2-cylinder setup, so yes, it runs. A detailed description is available on the Technology Overview page, but be sure to hit their images page and step through the pictures in order: watching the person assemble the engine step-by-step helps clarify how it works.