Based on its mechanical design, the FICHT fuel injector had limits in the precision of fuel delivery that could be achieved, and as such, the specifications set for the E-TEC�s performance and emissions compliance meant that the FICHT injector design was no longer practical. Changing the mechanics of the system of fuel injector opening and closing with a more accurate means of metering was required. The only way to accomplish this is using a voice coil actuator, which is a higher-precision control device. Here�s why:
The FICHT injector used a solenoid for actuation, which powered the �open� phase of its cycle, which then relied on a spring to return the injector plunger to its �closed� phase position. By contrast, the E-TEC injector is powered on both the open and close phases, meaning that both phases of the injector cycle can be very accurately and precisely controlled, as opposed to controlling just the �open� phase as on the FICHT fuel injector. Fuel is on-the-ready to be delivered when needed, stored within the injector at very high pressure. A voice coil within the E-TEC injector is energized, which then releases a poppet valve to deliver fuel through a high-swirl nozzle. The timing of pulses and the duration that the injector is open is all regulated by the Engine Management Module (EMM), which is essentially the brains of the E-TEC.