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The search for better energetic efficiency of the flexible fuel engines will guide the next design changes in this technology. The use of direct injection and the downsizing of volumetric displacement compensated by supercharging is a possible solution to reduce the fuel consumption. The direct injection brings the thermodynamic benefits of the charge cooling; the reduced displacement reduces the pumping work in partial loads and engine friction, while the supercharging allows the performance of a bigger engine. The combination of these technologies with hydrated ethanol (E100 or AEHC) represents a performance and CO₂ reduction opportunity, but also a challenge in terms of cold start and durability. The objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the behavior and the potential in full load conditions of an engine equipped with direct fuel injection and turbocharger, using Brazilian Hydrated Bioethanol (called as E100) and Brazilian gasoline (called E22).

The introduction of Flexfuel technology in Brazil in 2003 brought an unquestionable advantage to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases in automobiles when used with ethanol. Furthermore, the research to increase the efficiency in the use of renewable energy is crucial for the sustainability of the automotive industry. Among the feasible technologies for achieving this goal, the Direct Injection Spark-Ignited engine (hereinafter referred to as a DISI engine) and the turbocharger are the most promising in short and middle terms. The combined use of Direct Injection and turbocharger on an engine can promote the downsizing. Both technologies are closer to the Brazilian reality and the Turbocharged DISI engine can even more be improved when used with the biofuel ethanol through its inherent thermodynamics advantages.