If you’re a fan of the newest version of the Dodge Charger, you’re certainly a fan of the available Hemi V8 engine option. In fact, the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V8 engine easily won Best-in-Class for its massive 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. There are few vehicles out there that can even begin to compete with this kind of power.
When car lovers hear that a new model comes with a HEMI engine, they typically smile and nod in approval. Unfortunately, not everyone out there really knows what makes a HEMI engine so special.
Whether you’re looking for a way to impress the gang or just need a refresher on the topic, here is what you need to know about HEMI engines that you’ll find in the new Dodge Charger.
What Exactly Is A Hemi Engine?
In the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, the HEMI engine was synonymous with muscle cars and drag racing. Today, people know the word “HEMI” to indicate massive power.
HEMI engines contain an extremely efficient combustion chamber, which gives them more muscle than other engines. While most engines use a flat head piston, HEMI pistons have a dome shape with angled and open valves using twin sparkplugs per cylinder.
Using this unique configuration allows for a greater intake of air, a better mix of fuel and air, higher compression rates, and ultimately more power outputted from the engine.
Advantages of a HEMI
In any engine, the more efficient it is as burning fuel, the more power it will output. Any gas that is unburned creates untapped energy. You also don’t want to lose heat as that will change how much pressure is created in the cylinder.
One of the most advantageous elements of a HEMI engine is that its domed-head pistons reduce the amount of surface area relative to the volume of the combustion chamber. Surface area is directly related to how much heat exists and allows for greater amounts of gas to be burned. In fact, A HEMI engine burns almost every molecule of fuel while in use, making it both powerful and efficient.
The size of the HEMI engine’s valves also plays an important role. HEMI utilizes valves on opposite sides of the head, which allows for more room. Valves can actually be larger than in traditional engines so that airflow is improved.
Disadvantages of a HEMI
You might wonder why every engine doesn’t use the configuration found in a HEMI motor. Technology and engineering have changed quite a bit since the HEMI first hit the scene. Many manufacturers hope to build engines with smaller combustion chambers. These smaller engines add less weight while still reducing heat loss in the chamber.
The Newest Generations of HEMI Are Here
Just like how traditional engines are evolving and improving, the HEMI engine is an ongoing process. The newest versions of this powerful engine, like you’ll find in the freshest Dodge Charger, continue to produce unbelievable amounts of power.
There may be other engine options that get the job done, but HEMI engines are still preferred in muscle, racing, and high-powered cars and trucks that want the utmost ability. If you value power and efficiency under the hood, make sure to check out the new HEMI engine available on the Dodge Charger.
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