Among an ever-expanding array of fascinating and exciting cars and exhibits being lined up for Speedshow ‘09, the unique Kiwi-developed Synergy V8 race engine will be a star attraction.

This innovative engine is the brainchild of engineer and midget speedway driver Simon Longdill and has already been raced with great success to take the Australian midget title early in 2008, in only its second season of competition.

Utilising lightweight Kawasaki ZX12R cylinder heads, the Synergy V8 can be constructed in varying capacities – 2400cc to 3100cc – to suit different purposes, says Longdill.

“Its high output – from 390 to 500-plus horsepower naturally-aspirated and a crankshaft speed of up to 12,000rpm – makes it suitable for a number of competition and recreational uses,” says Longdill. “It’s modern and compact, with a modular configuration that means it can be used in front and mid-engine locations and be powered by petrol or alternative fuels.”

Longdill’s initial three-year design and development programme now continues as he explores larger engine capacities, power curve development, engine controls, fuel system configuration and additional modularity for ease of installation.

To date, the Synergy V8 2400 has powered an international midget series winner at Western Springs, the Australian Speedcar (midget) championship winner in Perth and been the fastest qualifier at the Magic Man34 Speedcars (midget) event also in Perth.

Longdill says plans include taking the Synergy V8 to the United States in 2010. “And we’re also really looking forward to being at Speedshow in September. It’s an excellent opportunity for us to talk to race competitors about our engine, which in many cases, can replace an existing four-cylinder unit, offering a comparable size, lighter weight and significantly higher power output.”

Speedshow organiser Keith Sharp says he’s delighted to have exhibitors like Synergy Technology involved with the event.

“It’s this kind of innovation that really helps New Zealanders so well-known internationally, but in an odd way, we sometimes don’t get to hear about these great innovations at home. So it’s going to be fantastic to see the Synergy V8 at Speedshow and find out about Simon’s plans to expand and develop the local and international markets for this truly innovative engine,” says Sharp.

Speedshow ’09 takes place at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland over the weekend of 19 and 20 September and Sharp has a number of key announcements to make in coming months about the exciting displays and exhibitors lined up for this year’s event.