Are Oval Pistons Making a Comeback? Ferrari Breathes Life into a Forbidden Innovation from Honda
In the 1970s, aeronautical engineer Soichiro Irimajiri, a key figure at Honda, designed pistons with oval shapes. The intention was to increase the piston’s surface area without adding weight, maximizing the force generated by exhaust gases. These pistons also housed eight valves per cylinder, doubling the flow of intake and exhaust gases.
Despite its unbeatable innovation, the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM) banned oval pistons in the early 1990s, preventing Honda from showcasing the true potential of its creation in competition. However, the idea never completely died out, and the allure of its promising combination continued to attract attention, especially in elite automotive racing.
Half a century later, Ferrari is reviving the concept. Unlike Honda’s designs, Ferrari’s pistons have a single connecting rod and are less elongated. Ferrari aims to leverage the advantages of this structure to enhance performance in its Formula 1 engines. With Honda’s patent now expired, other brands have the opportunity to explore its potential, and Ferrari seems determined to adapt it to its style and competitive needs.
