We propose a novel axis-symmetric modified hybrid permanent magnet(PM)/electromagnet(EM) magnetomotive force actuator for a variable valve timing camless engine. The design provides a large magnetic force with low energy consumption, low coil inductance, PM demagnetization isolation, and improved transient response. Simulation and experimental results confirm forces of about 200 N(in the presence of coil current) at the equilibrium position and 500 N(in the absence of coil current) at the armature seat. We compared our proposed design with a double solenoid valve actuator(DSVA). The finite element method(FEM) designs of the DSVA and our proposed valve actuator were validated by experiments performed on manufactured prototypes. We propose a novel axis-symmetric modified hybrid permanent magnet (PM) / electromagnet (EM) magnetomotive force actuator for a variable valve timing camless engine. The design provides a large magnetic force with low energy consumption, low coil inductance, PM demagnetization isolation, and improved transient response. Simulation and experimental results confirm about 200 N (in the presence of coil current) at the equilibrium position and 500 N (in the absence of coil current) at the armature seat. We compared our proposed design with a The finite element method (FEM) designs of the DSVA and our proposed valve actuator were validated by experiments performed on manufactured prototypes.