No, VCR does not stand for “Video Cassette Recorder” — it stands for “Variable Compression Ratio,” and it’s a topic we discussed nearly 10 years ago. At that time, though, the engineering was only in prototype. Today, at least one design is scheduled for use on a production vehicle, slated to debut on the 2019 Infiniti QX50.

As with most of the “new” technologies surrounding engine management, the idea of variable compression ratios (VCR) is a result of old concepts revisited with the capabilities engineers have at their disposal today. The basic four-stroke cycle remains the same. It’s just being fine-tuned for maximum efficiency across the entire operating range by providing a variety of means of changing the engine’s operating modes. Of course, the resulting increases in efficiency means more power and better fuel economy. It also means additional training to fully understand how the system works and how to fix it when it doesn’t! We expect the engine oil system will be more critical then ever, don’t attempt to save money by extending the oil interval! BG Motor Oil Additive to the rescue!  Click this link for more information on prolonging the life of your engine and oil.