STIHL engine technology: developed to support you

Our power tools cover many applications, so we innovate in many areas of engine technology – for improved efficiency, reliability and performance.

From our reimagined four-stroke engine to full electronic control, engine technology developments from STIHL help you rise to any challenge. Because our tools are designed to meet a wide range of needs across many applications and user groups, we work on engine technology developments in different areas, and are constantly improving the motors in our petrol tools. We’ve put together more information about the innovative technology currently used in STIHL petrol engines.

STIHL engine technology

A person wearing protective gear using a STIHL FS 131 petrol brush cutter on uneven grassy ground in front of a house

STIHL 4-MIX®

The STIHL 4-MIX® engine is a reincarnation of the four-stroke engine, which incorporates the benefits of a 2-stroke engine. Its innovative design delivers enormous engine power and much greater torque, while generating fewer harmful emissions and requiring less maintenance.

Magnesium pistons

As a pioneer of technological innovation, we devote a great deal of energy and expertise to designing chainsaws which are lightweight and high-performance. We have taken a big step forward in this area with our special magnesium alloy piston. Find out why it’s a game-changer and how we came to devel

STIHL 2-MIX engine technology

The STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke engine offers high-power engine performance, outstanding output capacity, and exceptional torque for excellent cutting performance and power. The innovative stratified scavenging system reduces harmful emissions and facilitates significantly reduced fuel consumption.

Fuel injection technology

Fuel injection in the STIHL MS 500i chainsaw ensures fuel is measured and delivered just where it’s needed, regardless of altitude and temperature. This innovation eliminates the need for a carburettor, making the tool lighter, more reliable and more versatile.

The decompression valve

With STIHL decompression valves starting an engine requires less manual effort, as some of the counterpressure in the cylinder can be released. This means the engine starts quickly and without strain for you.

The STIHL fuel tank cap

The STIHL toolless fuel tank cap enables you to open and close the oil and fuel tanks on our power tools with a minimum of fuss and with no need for tools. The bayonet design makes refuelling quick, clean and easy.

STIHL air filter system

The long-life air filter system from STIHL cleans the intake air in the chainsaw in multiple steps, thereby reducing wear and tear while enhancing carburettor capacity. Clever routing and effective filters mean smooth operation as well as extended service life.

STIHL carburettor heater

The STIHL electric carburettor heater prevents your chainsaw carburettor from icing up at low temperatures while protecting the engine’s functionality. A thermostat activates the carburettor heater at temperatures below 10°C, so there’s nothing to stop the power tool from working at freezing point.

Summary: STIHL engine technology

From four-stroke engine to electronic control
Because we have tools for a wide range of applications, we innovate in many areas of engine technology
STIHL engine technology has been developing drive systems since 1926

More STIHL engine technology innovations

Say goodbye to rough-running engines with M-Tronic. The system ensures that engine performance is continuously optimised, as well as providing precise electronic regulation of ignition timing and fuel metering. In a nutshell, M-Tronic is an engine technology that makes all the difference, every day.