How could you prove that the frontal deactivation really did make the improvisers innovate?

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Vehicles with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions or cylinder deactivation systems let a big V8 engine run on just four cylinders on the highway.

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Overcoming any remote deactivation Google may try to enforce or loading your own unauthorized apps are also definite possibilities, though we're sure others will surface soon.

ENGADGET

Now, it's true that amazing gains are being made in the efficiency of internal combustion engines, both gas and diesel: direct injection, cylinder deactivation, stop-start, eco-mode throttle mapping, to name a few of the recent applied technologies.

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Silverado and Sierra will accomplish its new mileage pinnacle with a 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 relying on direct injection, cylinder deactivation and variable-valve timing to achieve EPA estimates of 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with two-wheel drive, or 16 in the city and 22 on the highway with four-wheel drive.

FORBES: GM Scores EcoBoost Via Higher MPG Claim On New Silverado