Toyota recently announced that it has developed Valvematic, a variable valve lift mechanism created through combining VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), which controls the timing of intake valve opening/closing, with a new mechanism that can also control the intake valve lift volume.

While conventional engines control air intake using a throttle valve, Valvematic adjusts the volume of air taken in by continuously controlling the intake valve lift volume and timing of valve opening and closing.  This ensures optimal performance based on the engine’s operational condition, thus helping vehicles achieve both high fuel efficiency and dynamic performance.

The first application of Valvematic will be in a new 2.0-litre engine being introduced in the near future. This new system further evolves the Toyota petrol engine and improves fuel efficiency by between 5 and 10 per cent (depending on driving conditions), reduces CO₂ emissions, boosts power output by at least 10 per cent and enhances throttle response.　

Toyota positions global environmental preservation and initiatives toward energy diversification as a priority management issue in terms of its corporate social responsibility.  As a part of its efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions through high fuel efficiency and to achieve cleaner exhaust emissions, Toyota plans to completely revamp its petrol engine and transmission lineup by 2010.