Eaton LIVC chosen for CV engine programs

Eaton’s Late Intake Valve Closing (LIVC) technology has been selected for commercial vehicle engine programs in North America, Europe and Asia, the company announced. The production awards span medium- and heavy-duty diesel and natural gas engines larger than 9.0 L. Start of production is expected by the end of 2026.

Eaton’s Late Intake Valve Closing (LIVC) technology. (Photo: Eaton)

The LIVC technology builds on Eaton’s experience developing advanced valvetrain systems, including its Cylinder Deactivation (CDA) technology. The system uses a switching roller finger follower, dedicated rocker arm and lost motion mechanism to precisely control intake valve events. The design also allows calibration changes without hardware modifications, giving manufacturers greater flexibility to tailor engine performance to individual vehicle applications, Eaton stated.

Because the technology delays the closing of the intake valve during the intake stroke, engine thermal efficiency is improved by enabling a higher expansion ratio while effectively reducing compression. The result, said Eaton, is lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon dioxide emissions without sacrificing engine performance. The company reported up to 2% fuel economy improvements during development and validation testing.

In addition, the technology increases exhaust gas temperatures, improving aftertreatment efficiency and helping manufacturers meet future emissions requirements, including Euro 7 regulations in Europe, the company noted.

“LIVC gives commercial vehicle manufacturers a new level of flexibility to optimize engine performance, fuel economy and emissions,” said Nate Stewart, global product line director, Engine Air Management, Eaton’s Mobility segment. “Unlike conventional fixed valve timing strategies, our switchable system allows valve events to be precisely adjusted for specific operating conditions, enabling manufacturers to improve efficiency across a broad range of heavy-duty applications.”

The company will showcase the LIVC technology at IAA Transportation 2026, Sept. 15-20, in Hannover, Germany.