Porsche’s W-12 engine patent isn’t like any usual 12-cylinder engine

New Delhi: When Bentley rolled out the final W12-powered Mulliner Batur, it felt like the end of an era. It was an era of amazing craftsmanship and of achieving up and beyond. For many ,it means the end of Volkswagen Group’s W-engine as well, with electrification being the way forward.

However, that might be far from the end as Porsche have recently filed a patent that might suggest that the brand is experimenting with a new take on the W12 layout. It isn’t a road down memory lane but more like a technical revitalisation. In fact, the documents hint towards an engineering remastering. 

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Now, instead of the usual twin-V arrangement that is familiar with Bentley motor, Porsche’s blueprint displays three distinct cylinder banks coming together in a well-defined W structure. The layout is far more compact, layered and designed clearly with thermal efficiency and packaging in the plans. These hint towards making a high-performing engine for a specific reason. 

What is really astounding is how the intake system has been described. Porsche places an air plenum right above the cylinder heads, allowing a direct path for airflow, which is almost a vertical drop straight into the combustion chambers. In terms of performance, this hints at less heat absorption, reduced travel distance for the intake air and a cleaner separation from the exhaust channels.

The housing should leave room for three potential turbo or superchargers, which is not just a step up from the old Bentley twin-turbo configuration, but a new formula overall. Porsche are not just tweaking the structure, they are going after boost control, airflow precision and chasing response. 

With everything said, this isn't a confirmation to be made for productions. With most brands investing in hybrid and battery power, Porsche are keeping a door open for a multi-bank internal combustion engine, especially in the face of their EV portfolio not having the best of response. 

The filing also says that the structure could go above 12 cylinders, which opens up bigger possibilities for a new powertrain for Bugatti to hypercars for tracks. However, what remains true is that Porsche might have given a new breath of life to the otherwise sunsetting W12 engine.