Engine maker LiquidPiston has introduced X Mini, a 70 cubic centimeter gasoline powered rotary four-stroke engine prototype.

X Mini is expected to be used in small engine applications including electric vehicles, range extenders, aerial vehicles and robotics, and is likely to improve the performance of the system.

It is based upon the company's flagship thermodynamic cycle and engine architecture and has two primary moving parts, a 4-pound core, which is fitted in a 6.6" x 6.2" x 5.4" box.

The engine also has an improved noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics when compared to engines belonging to the same line up.

LiquidPiston co-founder Dr. Alexander Shkolnik said: "We are currently in discussions with interested industry partners looking to enhance their existing product lines.

"The X Mini is an incredible breakthrough, and we expect to further optimize the engine for increased power (greater than 5 horsepower) and efficiency, and even lower operational noise."

Image: LiquidPiston's X Mini engine on the left. Photo:courtesy of PRNewswire.