Samrupa Tech presents the Port Cylinder Deactivation (PCDA) system—an innovative, patented technology engineered to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions in internal combustion engines (ICEs). PCDA addresses a critical need for cost-effective, scalable, and retrofit-ready solutions amid tightening emission norms and rising fuel costs across global automotive markets.
PCDA delivers a 5–15% improvement in fuel economy and up to 10% reduction in emissions through a novel mechanical approach that selectively deactivates intake ports of specific cylinders during low-load conditions, such as idling, cruising, or light acceleration. Unlike conventional Cylinder Deactivation (CDA) systems—which are electronically complex and costly—PCDA uses a simple, mechanically actuated valve system in the intake manifold, which works in sync with the vehicle’s existing ECM signals, requiring no internal engine modification or software overhaul.
In a 4-cylinder configuration, PCDA deactivates cylinders in pairs (1&4 or 2&3), while in 6-cylinder engines, it operates in groups of three (1–3 or 4–6), maintaining engine balance and smooth operation. A key added benefit is smoother engine start-stop functionality, achieved by reducing internal engine resistance during cranking, which further supports fuel efficiency in urban stop-and-go traffic.
PCDA is compatible with both petrol and diesel engines and can be deployed in a wide range of applications—from passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles to tractors, mining vehicles, and off-road equipment. Its mechanical simplicity and modular design make it ideal for both OEM integration and aftermarket retrofitting.
While similar CDA technologies are used by global manufacturers such as GM, Volkswagen, and Honda, their implementations are often restricted to high-end models due to high cost and control complexity. PCDA offers comparable benefits at nearly one-fourth the cost, making it highly accessible to markets in India, Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa—where vehicle affordability and fuel savings are of prime importance.
The technology is protected by a granted Indian patent, and has been published by WIPO with acknowledgment of its technical novelty, including its ability to reduce negative engine pressure and improve volumetric efficiency. Additionally, patent applications have been filed in the United States and the European Union, further securing its global IP footprint.
A functional proof-of-concept has been developed and tested with a 1.2L petrol engine, and the company is currently preparing for certification testing through agencies like ARAI. Samrupa Tech LLP is actively seeking pilot deployment opportunities, OEM collaborations, and funding to scale this innovation to production.
By combining fuel savings, emission reduction, smooth operation, and low integration cost, PCDA stands out as a transformative solution that supports both environmental goals and economic mobility—especially for the majority of drivers and operators who rely on ICEs for their livelihood.
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About the Entrant
- Name:Samar Choudhury
- Type of entry:teamTeam members:
- Samar Choudhury
- Satarupa Kabasi
- Software used for this entry:The PCDA system is a mechanically actuated innovation that works in coordination with existing ECM/ECU wiring and logic already present in vehicles with start-stop or basic CDA capabilities. No custom software was developed for this system, nor was it required. The design builds on established automotive control architecture that has been in use globally for over 15 years. Although no proprietary software was used in its development, the system is compatible with standard engine control software logic used in MPFI and CRDI engines. Any adjustments needed for valve actuation timing can be supported using available calibration tools during integration with OEM systems.
- Patent status:patent