Fiat Chrysler Files Patent Application for Turbocharged Inline-Six

Rumors arise every so often that it becomes challenging to identify which ones are true and which ones are not. But if the latest patent application from Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) were to be believed, it looks like there is a huge possibility the company is developing a new inline-six engine.

Speculations on the matter have persisted for years, but the latest is backed by pictures and actual documents.

In a patent application filed by FCA in 2017 for an exhaust gas recirculation system meant for turbocharged gasoline-powered engines, the company used an image of an inline-six unit. Further fanning the flames of the rumors is the fact that the patent application was granted in April of this year, as recently reported by Mopar Insiders after they discovered the application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Also supporting the claims is FCA’s two other patents that cover systems related to engines, both of which include images of V6 engines in the papers.

Mopar Insiders cites unnamed sources claiming the engine is internally referred to as GME-T6 or the “Tornado.” It is believed to make 360 to 525 horsepower with a high-performance version and is likely going to be equipped in several FCA models. The engine is also reportedly going to support the company’s eBooster technology, which eliminates turbo lag.

Asked about the legitimacy of the rumors, a spokesperson for FCA said in a statement that the company “prefer[s] not to comment on speculation regarding future product.”