In response to Army Air Corps 1939 interest in a high performance V-type pursuit aircraft engine, a 1941 contract was given to Chrysler for the development of the IV-2220 (later designated XI-2220). To achieve the goals of 1,491 kW (2,000 shp), extremely low frontal area, and minimum vibration characteristics, Chrysler conceived of two inverted V-8s, back-to-back with mid-drive to the front gearbox. The engine was turbo-supercharged, and incorporated Chrysler's first hemispherical combustion chamber with the spark plug in the center.

Single-cylinder tests began in May 1941, and the first engine was tested at the end of 1942. With the Republic P-47D-15 aircraft selected as the testbed, the first flight took place in July 1945.

This very rare XI-2220-11 engine (serial number 6) was flight tested in August, and the program terminated in November when a propeller shaft broke. The war was over and so was any requirement for such an engine.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date July 7, 1945 Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary Manufacturer Chrysler Corporation
 Physical Description Type: Reciprocating, 16 cylinders, V-type, inverted, water-cooled, turbosupercharged Power rating: 1,864 kW (2,500 hp) at 2,700 rpm Displacement: 36.4 L (2,220 cu in.) Bore and Stroke: 147 mm (5.8 in.) x 133 mm (5.25 in.) Weight: 1,081.4 kg (2,384 lb) Dimensions Overall: 44 x 34 x 120in., 2384lb. (111.8 x 86.4 x 304.8cm, 1081.4kg)
 Materials Steel, Aluminum, Textile, Plastic, Rubber, Paint
 Inventory Number A19660454000 Credit Line Transferred from the U.S. Army Air Forces Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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