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[Due to the increasing size of the archives, each topic page now contains only the prior 365 days of content. Access to older stories is now solely through the Monthly Archive pages or the site search function.]
Study Concludes That Class 8 Truck Fuel Consumption Could Be Reduced By Up to 50% By 2017 Using Existing and Emerging Technologies; Current Payback Requirements Could Forestall Implementation
November 20, 2009
A new study released today by the Northeast States Center for a Clean Air Future (NESCCAF) and the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) found that fuel consumption of Class 8 trucks and the resultant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions can be reduced up to 50% with the adoption of current and developing technologies and new operational measures by 2017.
However, the study also concluded that given the current short payback period for investment demanded by the trucking industry, a number of the technologies that could enable such savings would not be adopted, absent regulation or a longer payback period.
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Opel Revamping Corsa for 2010; Better Performance, Lower Fuel Consumption and CO2 Emissions
November 19, 2009
The Opel Corsa is receiving a complete re-make for 2010, with major engineering changes, re-vamped powertrain line-up, chassis improvements and steering recalibration to give the Corsa better performance and greater fuel economy as well as comfort, handling and driving dynamics. The Corsa, which accounts for some 30% of Opel/Vauxhall total sales, is available in three-door and five-door variants.
Gasoline engine line-up. The new gasoline engine line-up for the Corsa fully complies with Euro 5 standards. All engines have been re-worked to offer more torque while featuring up to 13% lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Both the 1.2- and 1.4-liter Twinport variants are each available in two versions with different outputs. Every country selects and offers customers the variants that suit the needs of their region. Some may decide to go for optimal fuel efficiency; other may want to balance it with more performance.
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Federal-Mogul Introduces New Diesel Piston Design to Support Downsized Engines with Higher Output
November 15, 2009
| DuraBowl technology optimizes the grain size around the piston rim to provide much improved resistance to cracking under both mechanical and thermal loads. Microstructure of a typical piston alloy (a), as cast, showing a coarse structure and (b), re-melted, showing a finer structure. The dark grey areas are silicon particles; the light grey areas aluminium. Click to enlarge. |
Federal-Mogul Corporation has developed an innovative aluminum piston design that can reliably withstand the mechanical and thermal loads produced by heavily boosted engines, thereby enhancing diesel engine performance and supporting diesel downsizing.
Called DuraBowl, Federal-Mogul’s design strengthens the crown of a piston by locally re-melting the alloy around the bowl, resulting in an enhanced microstrucutre in the alloy which significantly improves the fatigue strength of the aluminum where it is most needed. The result is an extension of engine life to between four to seven times that achieved with a conventional cast piston.
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Joule Achieves Direct Microbial Conversion of CO2 into Hydrocarbons
November 09, 2009
Joule Biotechnologies, Inc. reported a major step forward in its development of renewable fuels, achieving direct microbial conversion of carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons via engineered organisms, powered by solar energy. (Earlier post.) The breakthrough was made possible by the discovery of unique genes coding for enzymatic mechanisms that enable the direct synthesis of both alkane and olefin molecules. Production was achieved at lab scale, with pilot development slated for early 2011.
Joule is advancing a new, photosynthesis-driven approach to producing renewable fuels, avoiding the economic and environmental burden of multi-step, cellulosic or algal biomass-derived methods.
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Chrysler Portfolio Segment Mix Shifting to Smaller, More Fuel Efficient Vehicles; 25% Improvement in Portfolio Fuel Economy by 2014
November 04, 2009
| Projected shift in volume and segment mix. Click to enlarge. |
Chrysler’s worldwide product plan for 2010-2014 envisions a shift in its portfolio segment mix. Micro through mid-size vehicles will increase from 45% to 58% of volume, while large and full-size segments will decline from 55% to 42% of volume, said Joe Veltri, Vice President - Product Planning, Chrysler Group.
Chrysler estimates that diesel engines will represent 14% of its portfolio in 2014, compared to 9% in 2010. Four-cylinder gasoline engines will increase their share to 38% from 19%, Veltri said.
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EU-Funded Project Targets Sustainable Production of Ethyl Levulinate from Biomass as Diesel Miscibile Biofuel
October 31, 2009
| Representation of DIBANET processes, products and linkages. Source: Carbolea. Click to enlarge. |
An EU-funded research project is seeking to develop new technologies that will enable the sustainable production of diesel miscible biofuels (DMB) from cellulosic biomass wastes in Europe and Latin America.
Specifically, the DIBANET (Development of Integrated Biomass Approaches Network) project will advance the art in the production of ethyl levulinate from organic wastes and residues. Ethyl levulinate (EL) is a novel diesel miscible biofuel (DMB) produced by esterifying ethanol with levulinic acid. The project will also use fast pyrolysis to convert the residue left over from biofuel production to bio-oil for subsequent upgrading to DMB.
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New 2010 Opel Corsa ecoFLEX Offers More Power, Drops Fuel Consumption to 3.7L/100km, 98 gCO2/km
October 30, 2009
| The new Opel Corsa ecoFLEX debuts in January 20109. Click to enlarge. |
Starting in January 2010, the new Opel Corsa ecoFLEX will offer improved fuel economy with increased power compared to its model year 2009 predecessor. (Earlier post.) Powered by a 70 kW/95 hp 1.3 CDTI diesel engine boosted by a turbo with a variable geometry, the new Corsa ecoFLEX offers 28% more power than the previous generation Corsa ecoFLEX even though fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are cut by some 10%. The price is the same as the standard 90 hp Corsa 1.3 CDTI.
With N·m 190 of torque available between 1750 and 3250 rpm, the new Corsa ecoFLEX needs only 3.7 L/100 km (63.6 mpg US), releasing just 98 g/km CO2 as a three-door. The five-door Corsa emits 99 g/km. The 2009 model year Corsa ecoFLEX has a fuel consumption rating of 4.1 L/100km (57.4 mpg US), with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km.
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Quantum Introduces Advanced High Performance All-Wheel Drive Diesel Hybrid Electric Drive System
October 23, 2009
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. has introduced a fuel-efficient, high-performance diesel hybrid electric powertrain, “Q-Force”. In 2007, the US Army awarded Quantum a $4.88-million contract (earlier post) to develop a diesel hybrid electric version of its Alternative Mobility Vehicle (AMV) “Aggressor.” (Earlier post.)
The proprietary 4-wheel drivetrain can be configured for specialized military as well as commercial applications. In one configuration, the diesel engine produces 75 hp (56 kW), the electric motor, 133 hp (99 kW), and the powertrain yields 5,463 lb-ft (7,407 N·m) of torque after gear reduction.
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Michigan Tech-Led Partnership Investigating Energy Efficient Emissions Control for Heavy-Duty Diesels; $1.7M from DOE
October 21, 2009
A side effect of cleaning up diesel exhaust can be a drop in fuel efficiency and a need to do diagnostics of whether the systems are operating in their design states. A partnership led by researchers at Michigan Technological University is addressing those issues in a three-year, $2.8 million project funded largely by a $1.7 million grant from the US Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory.
Additional support and in-kind goods, services and expertise is provided by the partners from the diesel engine companies Cummins, John Deere, and Navistar; sensor manufacturer Watlow; and Johnson Matthey, a producer of diesel catalysts and pollution-control systems. Scientists at Oak Ridge and Pacific Northwest National Laboratories are also collaborating.
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Use of Reformed Exhaust Gas Recirculation Gas as a Dual Fuel Can Significantly Reduce Both NOx and Smoke in a Diesel Engine at Low Loads
October 17, 2009
| Proposed engine-reformer-diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) system. Credit: ACS, Tsolakis et al. (2009) Click to enlarge. |
Using hot reformed exhaust gas recirculation (REGR) gas as a dual fuel in a diesel under low-load operation can result in a “significant” reduction of both NOx and smoke engine emissions without a penalty in fuel consumption, according to a new study by team of researchers from the UK, Italy and Jordan led by Dr. Athanasios Tsolakis at the University of Birmingham. A paper on their study appeared online 7 October in the ACS journal Energy & Fuels.
In the exhaust gas fuel-reforming method, part of the engine exhaust gas reacts with small amounts of engine fuel in a mini-reactor fitted in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) loop to produce gaseous fuel named reformed EGR (REGR), which contains H2, CO, CH4, and CO2. The REGR gas is fed back to the engine inlet.
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Study Finds That Late Intake Valve Closing and Increased Intake Pressure Can Reduce NOx, Soot, HC, and CO Emissions Simultaneously in Diesel PCCI
October 14, 2009
| Summaries of the different effects of late IVC on engine emissions and performance from recent studies. (LIVC: late IVC; ←: advance; ↓decrease; ↑increase; – remain constant). Credit: ACS, Peng and Jia (2009). Click to enlarge. |
A study by a pair of researchers from the University of Sussex (UK) and Dalian University of Technology, China found that using late intake valve closing (IVC) in diesel PCCI (premixed charge compression ignition) engines, can, with the assistance of increasing intake pressure, reduce NOx, PM, HC, and CO emissions simultaneously.
A certain EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) rate and optimized SOI (start of injection) timing were always necessary to maintain satisfactory NOx and soot emissions for diesel PCCI combustion. Their paper was published online 14 October in the ACS journal Energy & Fuels.
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EPA Soliciting Proposals for Clean Diesel Projects; Up to $64M in Awards in FY 2009/2010
October 07, 2009
The US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program is soliciting proposals nationwide for projects that achieve significant reductions in diesel emissions in terms of tons of pollution produced and diesel emissions exposure, particularly from fleets operating in areas designated by the Administrator as poor air quality areas. A single proposal may target multiple fleets, fleet types and/or diesel emission reduction solutions.
The total estimated funding for this competitive opportunity for FY 2009/2010 is approximately $64 million, including all non-tribal and tribal awards. EPA regional offices will award the assistance agreements for selected projects; EPA expects to make around 80 awards. Funding will be in the form of cooperative agreements or grants.
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Volvo Car Corporation to Introduce Diesel Plug-in Hybrid in Europe in 2012
September 25, 2009
| PHEV battery pack in V70 demonstrator without damage after a full scale rear crash test. Click to enlarge. |
Volvo Car Corporation is postponing its plans to produce a full hybrid based on a diesel engine and instead will introduce a series-produced plug-in diesel hybrid (PHEV) in Europe as early as 2012. The plug-in will support up to a 50 km (31 mile) all-electric range—sufficient to cover the daily transport needs of 75% of European drivers. For longer distances, the diesel automatically takes over. The combined range is about 1,200 kilometers (746 miles). Carbon dioxide emissions will average out at 49 g/km, with fuel consumption of 1.9 liters per 100 km (124 mpg US), according to the NEDC certification driving cycle.
The strategy that Volvo is adopting to start series-producing plug-in cars as early as 2012 is to exploit existing architecture for major components such as the body and engine. The company says it is saving time by installing the battery and electric motor beside a conventional driveline instead of waiting for an entirely new generation of car models.
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New Audi A3 1.6 TDI Models Reach 99 gCO2/km Mark; Start-stop and Energy Recovery
September 21, 2009
Audi’s new A3 1.6 TDI diesel models (A3 and A3 Sportback) have dropped below the 100 g/km mark, emitting 99 grams of CO2/km (159 g/mile), corresponding to fuel consumption of 3.8 liters of diesel per 100 km (61.9 US mpg US). The four-cylinder TDI engine delivers 77 kW (105 hp) at 4,400 rpm from a displacement of 1,598 cc and 250 N·m (184 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 2,500 rpm. The three-door A3 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.4 seconds and on up to a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph); the A3 Sportback reaches 100 km/h in 11.7 seconds.
In addition to the efficiency of the engine, the low fuel consumption results from the leverage of technologies from Audi’s Modular Efficiency Platform, including a start-stop system and energy recovery. (Earlier post.)
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New Ford Focus ECOnetic with Start-Stop Targets 62 mpg US, 99 gCO2/km
September 16, 2009
| The 2010 Ford Focus ECOnetic. Click to enlarge. |
At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Ford of Europe introduced the new 2010 Focus ECOnetic. When equipped with a new optional Ford Auto-Start-Stop system that was previewed on the Ford iosis MAX Concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the 2010 Focus ECOnetic is targeting average combined cycle fuel consumption of 3.8L/100km (62 mpg US) with CO2 emissions as low as 99 g/km.
Regardless of whether Auto-Start-Stop is specified, the Focus ECOnetic has Smart Regenerative Charging and Low Tension FEAD (Front End Accessory Drive) technologies that are new to the Ford of Europe product line-up, and which combine to deliver lower emissions and better fuel efficiency. The standard Focus ECOnetic offers combined cycle fuel consumption of 4.0L/100km (59 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 104 g/km.
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Peugeot Shows Two HYbrid4 Concepts, New BB1 EV Concept at Frankfurt
September 15, 2009
| The 3008 HYbrid4 concept previews the production model that will appear in spring 2011. Click to enlarge. |
Peugeot used the Frankfurt Motor Show as the platform to show two concept versions of its HYbrid4 platform. The 3008 HYbrid4 (earlier post) previews the production model scheduled to appear in the spring of 2011, while the experimental RCZ HYbrid4 is a sports car application of the same hybrid system.
In addition, Peugeot introduced the BB1 electric concept car. The company also recently signed an agreement with Mitsubishi for the introduction of the electric iOn—based on the Mitsubishi i-MiEV—at the end of 2010. (Earlier post.)
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Volkswagen Unveils New One-Liter Concept Car; Smallest Production-Intent Diesel Yet from Volkswagen Applied in A Full Hybrid Design
| Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Volkswagen Brand Technical Development, in front of the Volkswagen Concept Car L1 in Frankfurt. Click to enlarge. |
Volkswagen unveiled the L1, its second-generation one-liter class concept car, at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The diesel-electric full-hybrid vehicle, weighing just 380 kilograms (838 lbs), offers an initial glimpse at how a future production version might appear.
The “one-liter” designation refers to the design target of fuel consumption of 1 liter per 100 kilometers (235 mpg US). Volkswagen first revealed a one-liter concept at the annual meeting in 2002, then cancelled the project in 2005. (Earlier post.) In 2007, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn confirmed that VW was resurrecting the 1-liter car project and would place it in production. (Earlier post.)
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Mercedes-Benz Adds Two Four-Cylinder BlueEFFICIENCY Diesels to GLK SUV Lineup; Potential to Meet EU6 and US BIN5 Limits
September 11, 2009
| Mercedes-Benz GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, AMG sports package exterior. Click to enlarge. |
Mercedes-Benz has added two new four-cylinder diesels to its GLK family of SUVs: the rear-wheel drive GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the all-wheel drive GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. The latter features the most powerful four-cylinder diesel currently applied in an SUV. Both vehicles meet the EU5 emissions standard and have the potential to fulfill the future EU6 limits as well as the existing BIN 5 requirements in the USA.
GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. The new 2143 cc diesel engine with direct fuel injection produces 150 kW/204 hp and 500 N·m (369 lb-ft) of torque. With its high torque already present at 1600 rpm, the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC requires 7.0 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h (50 to 75 mph) for overtaking. Fuel consumption is 6.7 L/100 km (35 mpg US), with CO2 emissions of 176 g/km.
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Citroën Launches the New C3; 99 g CO2/km Model Available From Launch
September 04, 2009
| The new C3 with Zenith windshield. Click to enlarge. |
Citroën is launching the new version of the C3 supermini (earlier post)—a best-seller that has sold more than two million units since its introduction. (The C3 was also Citroën’s first production vehicle fitted with a stop-start system, beginning in 2004. Earlier post .)
Controlled weight and aerodynamics (Cd 0.30) contribute to management of fuel consumption and CO2 emissions; a 99 g/km HDi DPFS 90 diesel version is available from launch. This will be the first full production Citroën to emit less than 100 g CO2/km.
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Volkswagen to Premiere New Generation of Polo, Golf and Passat BlueMotion Models; Consumption As Low As 3.3 L/100km (71.3 mpg US)
September 02, 2009
| Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion, Polo BlueMotion and Golf BlueMotion. Click to enlarge. |
Volkswagen will introduce the new generation of the Polo BlueMotion, Golf BlueMotion and Passat BlueMotion at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in two weeks.
All three Volkswagens are the most fuel-efficient models in their respective size classes, according to VW; all three are celebrating world premieres as production versions at the IAA; and all three can be ordered later this fall.
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Chrysler Bringing New Dodge Caliber to Frankfurt Show with New Diesel
September 01, 2009
| The new Dodge Caliber. Click to enlarge. |
Chrysler is bringing the new Dodge Caliber to the Frankfurt Motor Show fitted with a new 2.2-liter, Euro 5 compliant common-rail diesel (CRD) engine. The new turbo diesel is paired to a six-speed manual transmission and produces 120 kW (163 hp DIN) and 320 N•m (236 lb-ft), delivering 16% more power, 3% more torque and 25% more towing capability (1,500 kg) compared with the previous diesel engine.
Fuel consumption is improved by 5% (5.8L/100km compared to 6.1L/100km; 40.6 mpg US vs. 38.6 mpg US). CO2 emissions are improved by 3% (154 g/km compared to 159 g/km).
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Ford Unveils New 6.7-L Power Stroke V-8 Turbocharged Diesel
August 31, 2009
| 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbocharged diesel engine. Click to enlarge. |
Ford has provided initial details on the new Ford-engineered, -tested and-manufactured 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 turbo diesel engine. Debuting in the next-generation F-Series Super Duty truck, the new diesel engine will deliver improvements in torque, horsepower and fuel economy while adding more fueling flexibility—the engine is sanctioned for up to B20 biodiesel blends—and meeting 2010 emissions requirements.
The diesel engine team made improvements and changes throughout the engine architecture—including the use of an “inboard exhaust” design, a first for a modern production diesel engine—to deliver on aggressive horsepower, torque, emissions and fuel economy targets.
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Renault Introducing New Fluence Sedan Line; Diesels All Less Than 119 gCO2/km, All-Electric Model in 2011
| The Renault Fluence. Click to enlarge. |
Renault will extend its vehicle line-up this autumn with a new sedan, the Fluence. The Fluence is the successor to the sedan version of the old Mégane. (Renault introduced the New Renault Mégane Hatch and New Renault Mégane Coupé at the Paris Motor Show in 2008, marking the beginning of the renewal of its C-segment lineup.)
From launch, and depending on market, Renault Fluence will be available with a range of engines. All diesel models in the Fluence range have a CO2 emissions rating of 119g/km and qualify for the Renault eco² signature. Renault says it will introduce an all-electric version of the Fluence in 2011.
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BMW’s “CO2 Champion” Performance Concept is a Plug-in Diesel Hybrid; 50 km/31 mile All-Electric Range; Thermo-electric Generator for Waste Heat Recovery
August 30, 2009
| The powertrain of the plug-in hybrid BMW Vision EfficientDynamics. Click to enlarge. |
BMW has provided more details on the concept car it will unveil at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show—a concept that Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, called a “CO2 champion” that will demonstrate “a whole new dimension of driving pleasure with regards to efficiency with performance” during a press conference late in July. (Earlier post.)
The plug-in full hybrid BMW Vision EfficientDynamics all-wheel drive concept car is powered by a 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbodiesel; two electric motors, one on each axle; and a 10.8 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack. Overall system output is 262 kW (356 hp), with maximum torque of 800 N·m (590 lb-ft).
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Audi Introducing Three New Models at Frankfurt Show; New 1.2L A3, 3.0L TDI A4, and S5 Sportback
August 28, 2009
Audi will unveil three new vehicles at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA): the efficient A3 1.2 TFSI, the low-emission A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro, and the S5 Sportback.
Audi A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI. Downsizing is a key element of Audi’s efficiency strategy. Designed from scratch, the new turbocharged, gasoline direct injection 1.2 TFSI generates 77 kW (105 hp) from a displacement of 1,197 cm3 (73.05 in3). Due to an aluminum crankcase, this four-cylinder engine weighs just 89.5 kilograms (197.31 pounds).
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German Transport Ministry Includes Mercedes-Benz Citaro G BlueTec Series Hybrid City Bus in Its Electric Mobility Development Program
The German Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs (BMVBS) will provide funding for Daimler Buses to develop, evaluate, and test the first small fleet of Mercedes-Benz Citaro G BlueTec Hybrid articulated buses (earlier post). The Citaro G BlueTec Hybrid is a series diesel-hybrid city bus able to run solely on electric power.
The Citaro G BlueTec Hybrid features four wheel-hub motors on the center and rear axles of the bus. These motors develop a maximum output of 80 kW each and are liquid-cooled. A roof-mounted Li-ion battery system has an output of 180 kW and a weight of less than 350 kg, including cooling. The batteries are charged not only by the diesel generator but also by fuel-saving energy recuperation from braking.
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Saab to Introduce New 9-5 at Frankfurt
August 27, 2009
| The new Saab 9-5 will debut in Frankfurt. Click to enlarge. |
Saab provided initial information on its new 9-5 sedan, which will have its world debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The new sedan is slated to go on sale in 2010.
The all-turbo powertrain line-up is the broadest ever offered by Saab, carrying forward Saab’s rightsizing engine strategy through the development of efficient four-cylinder turbo engines. There is a choice of three fuels: gasoline, diesel and E85 bioethanol. A four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo diesel with six-speed manual transmission diesel offers CO2 emissions as low as 139 g/km and fuel consumption of 5.3 L/100km (44.4 mpg US).
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Citroën to Introduce the DS3 Supermini at Frankfurt; As Low as 99 gCO2/km for Diesel Model
August 24, 2009
| The DS3. Click to enlarge. |
Citroën will unveil the DS3 supermini—the first model from the new DS line—at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2009 next month.
The DS3 will be available with a choice of Euro V power plants consisting of two HDi diesel units and three BMW co-developed gasoline engines. The two HDi diesels—a 90 bhp (67 kW) and an 110 bhp (82 kW) unit—are fitted with Citroën’s DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System). The three gasoline engines—VTi 95, VTi 120 and THP 150—are fitted with either 5- or 6- speed manual gearboxes.
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BMW to Introduce 320d EfficientDynamics Edition at IAA; 109 g CO2/km
August 21, 2009
| The 320d EfficientDynamics Edition. Click to enlarge. |
BMW will introduce the new 320d EfficientDynamics Edition at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). The sedan develops 163 hp (120 kW) between 3,500rpm to 4,200rpm and 360 N·m of torque from 1,750 rpm to 3,000rpm, with fuel consumption of 4.1 liters diesel/100 kilometers (57.4 mpg US) and a CO2 rating of 109 grams per kilometer in the EU test cycle.
Zero to 62mph performance is 8.2 seconds; acceleration in fifth gear from 50mph to 75mph takes 9.6 seconds. The car has a top speed of 137 mph (220 km/h).
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Rentech to Supply Up to 1.5M Gallons Per Year of Renewable Synthetic Diesel to Eight Airlines for Ground Service Equipment Operations at Los Angeles International Airport
August 18, 2009
Rentech, Inc. has signed a multi-year agreement to supply eight airlines with up to 1.5 million gallons per year of renewable synthetic diesel (RenDiesel) for ground service equipment operations at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) beginning in late 2012, when the plant that will produce the fuel is scheduled to go into service.
The initial purchasers under the agreement with Aircraft Service International Group (ASIG), the entity that provides fueling services to many airlines that operate at LAX, are Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, UPS Airlines and US Airways. Additional airline purchasers of RenDiesel can be added under the agreement with ASIG.
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Mazda to Introduce Clean Diesel CX-7 with SCR at the Frankfurt Motor Show
| Mazda CX-7 equipped with a MZR-CD 2.2-liter clean diesel engine (European specifications). Click to enlarge. |
Mazda Motor Corporation will exhibit freshened CX-7 SUVs with European specifications at the 63rd Frankfurt Motor Show, which will be held from 15-27 September. Newly added to the updated CX-7 lineup—and to be exhibited at the Frankfurt Show—is a version powered by Mazda’s MZR-CD 2.2 liter diesel engine mated to a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system. (Earlier post.)
SCR systems substantially reduce NOx emissions, which helps the diesel CX-7 to comply with Euro5 emissions regulations. The diesel CX-7 will be launched in Europe in October 2009, with Australian sales following in November.
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Advanced Turbocharged, Direct Injected Gasoline Engines Poised to Take on Diesels in US and in Europe for Reduced Fuel Consumption and Emissions
August 10, 2009
A confluence of technology developments, future emissions regulations and economic conditions will not only allow advanced light-duty spark-ignited gasoline engines to keep diesels at bay in the US market, but may also allow the gasoline units to push into the diesel-dominated medium-duty commercial truck and off-highway segments in the US, according to several presentations at the US Department of Energy’s 2009 Directions in Engine-Efficiency and Emissions Research (DEER) conference last week.
Additionally, suggested one of the speakers, advanced SIDI (spark-ignited, direct-injection) engines can take light-duty market share back from diesels in Europe based on the same trends.
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BorgWarner to Supply VTG Turbochargers for Deere Off-Road Engine Emission Compliance, Improved Fuel Economy
August 06, 2009
| BorgWarner VTG turbochargers are the first to help industrial diesel engines for the off-highway market meet new emissions regulations while improving fuel economy. Click to enlarge. |
BorgWarner will supply variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbochargers to boost John Deere Power Systems Interim Tier 4/Stage III B PowerTech PVX and PowerTech PSX 4.5L, 6.8L and 13.5L diesel engines for agricultural, construction, forestry and OEM applications.
BorgWarner’s turbocharging technology helps these new industrial engines meet the more stringent Interim Tier 4/Stage III B regulations for off-highway applications. These regulations require up to a 50% reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions compared with previous standards.
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Detroit Diesel Developing a Model-Based Controller for Real-Time Fuel Efficiency Optimization in a Heavy-Duty Diesel
August 05, 2009
A team of researchers from Detroit Diesel and Chris Atkinson, of Atkinson LLC, are developing, demonstrating and validating a next-generation, model-based diesel engine controller that can optimize fuel efficiency in real time in low-emissions heavy-duty diesel engines under fully transient engine operating conditions.
To meet increasingly stringent emission control standards, heavy-duty diesels have become increasingly complex. While a diesel engine in 1998 would typically have one actuator, noted Marc Allain in his presentation of the project at the DEER 2009 conference in Dearborn, engines for 2010 and beyond will have 7-8 actuators.
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Use of Supercritical Diesel Fuel for Improved Efficiency and Reduced Emissions
August 04, 2009
| An experimental P-T diagram mapping the liquid, liquid-vapor, and SC regions for diesel fuel-CO2 mixtures with different compositions and densities (numbers in red and black, respectively). The fuel may coke for temperatures higher than 750 K (at the right of the red line). Anitescu et. al., Energy & Fuels 2009. Click to enlarge. |
Researchers at Syracuse University (New York) have developed a method to prepare, inject and combust supercritical (SC) diesel fuel. The central part of the method is a new fuel system including high-temperature fuel injectors and a common rail to deliver SC fuel-diluent mixtures for combustion over ranges of conditions which will significantly improve engine efficiency, reduce PM and NOx and mitigate the environmental thermal impact. Heat required to bring the fuel to SC states is recovered from the exhaust gas of the engine. George Anitescu from Syracuse presented the work in a poster at the DEER 2009 conference in Dearbon, Michigan.
A supercritical fluid is any substance at a temperature and pressure above its thermodynamic critical point. The injection and combustion of supercritical fuels is also the core of Khosla-backed startup Transonic Combustion’s technology. (Earlier post.)
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BAF Technologies to Distribute Hardstaff Dual-Fuel Conversion Technology in US
July 31, 2009
| Basic OIGI system for CNG or LNG. Click to enlarge. |
US-based BAF Technologies, a provider of natural gas conversions for select light- and medium-duty vehicles, has entered into an exclusive distributorship agreement with UK-based T. Baden Hardstaff to retrofit existing heavy-duty on-road vehicles to dual-fuel operation. The agreement will provide BAF with exclusive territory rights for the United States.
BAF is currently converting 600 AT&T Ford E-Series vans to dedicated CNG technology in 2009. (Earlier post.) T. Baden Hardstaff is a service and technology provider for the road transport industry specializing in the development of low carbon vehicle technologies. Among its offerings is the OIGI dual-fuel system that can work with either compressed or liquefied natural gas.
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Air Force Office of Scientific Research Awards $3M for Research into Graphene Additives for Novel Aviation and Diesel Fuels
July 21, 2009
The US Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) has awarded an interdisciplinary team of scientists led by Princeton engineers a two-year, $3-million grant to develop nanoscale graphene additives for novel fuels to help supersonic jets fly faster and diesel engines cleaner and more efficient.
The funding, which comes as part of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Research Program (funding opportunity AFOSR-BAA-2009-3), will be used to tackle a fundamental fuel barrier to designing faster supersonic aircraft.
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Audi’s A4 2.0 TDIe: 4.6L/100km (51 mpg US) and 120 g CO2/km; Stop/Start and Energy Recuperation
July 10, 2009
| The A4 2.0 TDIe. Click to enlarge. |
Audi has introduced its fuel-consumption optimized version of the A4 mid-size sedan, the A4 2.0L TDIe, in Europe. Noted by Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management in his talk at the 120th Annual General Meeting of Audi AG in May, the A4 TDIe consumes an average 4.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (51.13 miles per gallon US gallon) and consequently emits 120 g CO2/km.
The A4 Saloon TDIe adopts the 100 kW (134 hp) 2.0-liter TDI engine first seen in A6 TDIe. (Earlier post.) The turbocharged diesel features high pressure common rail injection and incorporates stop/start and energy recuperation systems. Further fuel savings come from grille and under-body modifications to enhance aerodynamics.
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Amyris Opens Renewable Products Demonstration Facility in Brazil; Final Scale-up Before Commercial Production of Renewable Fuels and Chemicals
June 25, 2009
| Amyris Renewable Products Demonstration Facility. Photo: Business Wire. Click to enlarge. |
Amyris Brasil Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, Ltda., a wholly owned subsidiary of Amyris Biotechnologies, Inc., opened the Amyris Renewable Products Demonstration Facility in Campinas, Brazil. The facility, located in the midst of the sugarcane processing industry, secures the final development step before full commercial production of Amyris’s renewable fuels and chemicals.
Amyris’s initial products include a renewable diesel fuel with performance properties that equal or exceed those of petroleum-sourced fuels and currently available biofuels. A key attribute of the fuel is that it is a renewable hydrocarbon—i.e., it is a drop-in replacement for petroleum-derived fuels, enabling it to be used in any kind of diesel engine and withstand extremely low temperatures without the need to alter engines. It can also be easily distributed within the existing fuels infrastructure.
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Citroën Introduces New 3.0L Diesel
June 19, 2009
| Torque curve for the HDi 240. Click to enlarge. |
Citroën has introduced the new 3.0-liter diesel V6 DPFS HDi 240 engine for the C5 and C6. Improvements in the engine offer a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by between 12% (in the C5) and 15% (in the C6) compared to the outgoing 2.7L version it replaces. The engine features a new third-generation direct common-rail injection system; new generation combustion chamber; dual variable geometry turbochargers; exhaust gas recirculation; and an alternator which recovers energy during deceleration and braking.
Power output is now 177 kW (237 hp)—an increase of 18%—with a maximum torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at 1,600 rpm. Fitted with an 6-speed automatic gearbox, the fuel consumption on combined cycle of the two cars is 7.4 L/100 km (32 mpg US) with CO2 emissions of 195 g/km. The engine complies with the future Euro V emission standards.
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Volvo Cars and Vattenfall to Develop New Plug-in Diesel-Electric Hybrids; Three V70 PHEV Demonstrators on the Road This Summer
June 01, 2009
Swedish energy company Vattenfall and the Volvo Car Corporation are launching an industrial joint venture partnership to introduce plug-in hybrids on the market by 2012. In January 2007, Volvo and Vattenfall launched a joint project with the aim of testing and developing plug-in technology. (Earlier post.) They are now extending that cooperation.
The development of the cars is being carried out and financed jointly by the two companies. The Volvo Car Corporation will manufacture the cars and Vattenfall will develop charging systems and supply the cars with electricity.
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Cummins Progressing In Development of More Efficient Light-Duty Diesel Engines; Targeting 10.5% Fuel Economy Improvement Over 2007 Baseline With Tier 2 Bin 5 Emissions
May 21, 2009
| Cummins’ Light Duty Efficient Combustion technology is designed to scale down across smaller light-duty engines. Source: Cummins. Click to enlarge. |
Cummins is progressing in the development of Light Duty Efficient Clean Combustion (LDECC) technology for light-duty diesel engines. The objective of the DOE co-funded R&D program, which began in October 2007 and runs through November 2010, is to develop and design an advanced diesel combustion system that meets Tier 2 Bin 5 standards while delivering improvements in fuel efficiency. Project partners include Chrysler and BP.
Cummins is developing LDECC on a V8, and is targeted at improving the fuel efficiency of a 5,000 lb test weight LDV over the FTP city drive cycle by 10.5%. Cummins is designing LDECC with the intention of scaling it down across its family of smaller I-4 light duty engines, with displacements down to 2.8L.
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Controlled Power Introduces 12V Belt-Driven Integrated Starter Generator for Cars with Diesels
May 20, 2009
| Left: The SpeedStart B-ISG. Right: Installation in Volvo demonstrator with INA damper. Source: CPT. Click to enlarge. |
Controlled Power Technologies has developed the first belt-driven Integrated Starter Generator (B-ISG) to use a conventional 12-volt vehicle electrical system with the high power output necessary to provide excellent stop-start functionality on the majority of European cars equipped with diesel as well as gasoline engines.
The CPT SpeedStart B-ISG system can deliver up to a 5% reduction in CO2 emissions over the New European Drive Cycle when integrated into a modern powertrain, with the potential for even greater savings in real world urban driving situations.
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New 2.0L Diesel Opel Insignia ecoFLEX: 136 g CO2/km
April 20, 2009
| The Opel Insignia EcoFLEX. Click to enlarge. |
The new ecoFLEX version of the Opel Insignia features a 2.0-liter turbo diesel with an output of 118 kW (160 hp) and a maximum 380 N·m (280 lb-ft) of torque with overboost, with emissions of 136 g CO2/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.2 L/100km (45 mpg US) on the MVEG/NEDC cycle.
The Insignia ecoFLEX accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of up to 221 km/h (137 mph). The maximum torque of 350 N·m is available from 1,750 rpm, and can be temporarily increased for 15 seconds to 380 N·m via an ‘overboost’ function.
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Mercedes-Benz Showcases Diesel E 250 BlueTEC Concept for US
April 08, 2009
| The E 250 BlueTEC concept. Click to enlarge. |
At the New York International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz showcased a concept E 250 BlueTEC designed for the North American market. The E 250 BlueTEC combines a four-cylinder CDI engine and SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) emissions technology to comply with US Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards.
The engine delivers 150 kW (204 hp) of power and develops torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) at 1600-1800 rpm. When fitted to the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the E 250 BlueTEC offers fuel economy of 28 mpg US (8.4 L/100km) in city traffic and 39 mpg US (6.0 L/100km) on the highway (estimated EPA rating).
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GM Opel Cuts CO2 from 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX Zafira Van 9% to Below 140 g/km
April 06, 2009
| The 1.7 CDTI Zafira. Click to enlarge. |
Opel has improved the efficiency of its 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX Zafira seven-seat van, reducing the CO2 emissions by nearly 9% to 139 g/km, with fuel consumption of 5.3 L/100km (44.4 mpg US).
The 1.7-liter diesel with 81 kW (110 hp) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque available from 2,000 to 2,300 rpm is fitted with a maintenance-free particulate filter and a six-speed manual transmission as standard. The ecoFLEX Zafira reaches a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph) and accelerates to 100 km/h in 13.5 sec.
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GM, Politecnico di Torino and Regione Piemonte Enter New R&D Agreement; Diesel Hybrids a Priority
March 30, 2009
GM, Politecnico di Torino and Regione Piemonte, have entered into a framework agreement on the development of sustainable mobility, research and education projects in the Turin, Italy region. The announcement was made at the GM Symposium Diesel Fuels the Future.
The resulting Accordo di Programma will form the Institute of Automotive Research and Education which will drive new R&D projects in Piemonte. The goal of the Institute would be to develop and deliver world-class research and education with a strategic focus on future alternative powertrains which have the potential to reinvent the automobile for the 21st century.
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Mazda Becomes First Japanese Automaker to Develop a Urea SCR System for Cars
March 16, 2009
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| Urea SCR system diagram. Click to enlarge. |
The refreshed version of Mazda Motor Corporation’s crossover, the Mazda CX-7, will be the first passenger vehicle produced by a Japanese automaker to be equipped with a urea selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system.
Mazda’s urea SCR system, which is smaller than previous systems, will be combined with Mazda’s newly developed MZR-CD 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine. Mazda’s MZR-CD 2.2L turbodiesel engine produces low volumes of engine-out NOx, which means that the SCR system needs to remove less NOx in post processing, resulting in a reduced amount of urea required for NOx reduction.
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Volvo Adding Seven New DRIVe Models; Start/Stop, Regenerative Charging on Three
February 24, 2009
Volvo Cars is presenting seven new DRIVe models across its full range at the upcoming Geneva auto show, three of which are equipped with a start/stop system and regenerative charging. Volvo introduced its first three DRIVEe branded models—indicating uprated environmental properties—at the 2008 Paris motor show. (Earlier post.)
All the new DRIVe models are equipped with a conventional diesel engine and manual gearbox optimized for extra-low fuel consumption. These cars are also tailored specifically for low rolling resistance and reduced air drag.
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Saab to Give 9-3X its Debut in Geneva; E85 Plus All-Wheel Drive
February 23, 2009
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| The 9-3X. Click to enlarge. |
Saab will introduce the new 9-3X to the public at the upcoming Geneva motor show in March. The 9-3X sport wagon offers a lighter alternative to heavier and larger crossovers or SUVs. The 210 hp (155 kW), 2.0-liter turbo engine couples Saab’s E85-capable BioPower technology with all-wheel-drive for the first time. A 180 hp (132 kW), two-stage 1.9-liter turbo diesel option is also available with two-wheel drive transmission.
Saab is splitting off from General Motors, which acquired 50% of Saab in 1990 and subsequently acquired the remaining shares. (Earlier post). On 20 February, the Vänersborg District Court in Sweden approved the request for a reorganization and restructuring which Saab’s representative had submitted earlier in the morning.
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Alberta Renewable Diesel Demonstration Shows Successful Cold-Weather Use of Biodiesel and Renewable Diesel Blends
February 21, 2009
The recently concluded Alberta Renewable Diesel Demonstration (ARDD), Canada’s largest cold-weather study of bio-derived diesel fuels, demonstrated the successful on-road use of low-level blends of biodiesel (fatty acid methyl ester, FAME) and hydrogenated-derived renewable diesel (HDRD) in a range of Canadian climatic conditions.
Designed as a two-phased study, the ARDD involved laboratory testing followed by real-world use of the diesel blends by Alberta trucking fleets. The on-road demonstration, which ran from December 2007 to September 2008, put first- and second- generation renewable diesel fuels on the road in 59 long-haul commercial vehicles across Alberta. During winter months (16 December 2007 through 15 April 2008) 2% blends of FAME (100% canola methyl ester) and HDRD were used. During the spring and summer, 5% blends of HDRD and FAME (comprising 75% canola methyl ester and 25% tallow methyl ester) were dispensed.
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Volvo Introduces Two New 5-Cylinder Diesels; More Power, Less Fuel Consumption
February 17, 2009
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| The single-turbo 2.4D. Click to enlarge. |
Volvo Cars is introducing two entirely new five-cylinder, 2.4-liter turbo diesels: the high-performance, twin-turbo D5 with 205 hp (153 kW) and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque, and the medium-performance, single-turbo 2.4D with 175 hp (130 kW) and 420 Nm of torque.
The high-performance D5-engine has already been introduced in the Volvo S80. (Earlier post.) Both engines will be available in the Volvo S80, Volvo V70, Volvo XC60 and Volvo XC70 in select markets from the spring of 2009.
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New Audi A4 allroad quattro; 37 mpg in a Diesel Version
February 15, 2009
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| The A4 allroad quattro. Click to enlarge. |
Audi is introducing an allroad quattro version of the A4, featuring a choice of two diesel and one gasoline engines, all turbocharged and direct-injected; Audi drive select (intelligent handling technology), the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, and standard on-board energy recuperation system, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy during deceleration.
The 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine uses a common-rail system with an injection pressure of 1,800 bar and delivers 350 Nm between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, with 125 kW (170 bhp) power. The Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TDI reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph), with fuel consumption of 6.4 L/100km (36.75 mpg US).
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Tenneco and GE Transportation to Develop Hydrocarbon-SCR Technology for Diesel Emission Aftertreatment
February 04, 2009
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| Results from a 2007 GE study on HC-SCR showing %NOx conversion with 0 ppm H2, b) 1900 ppm H2. Whisenhunt et al. Click to enlarge. |
Tenneco Inc. and GE Transportation, a unit of General Electric Company will collaborate on the development and production of GE’s Hydrocarbon-Selective Catalytic Reduction catalyst technology (HC-SCR), a diesel aftertreatment system for reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions as effectively as urea-based SCR systems.
Tenneco, an industry leader in emission control technology and global supplier to many leading global automakers and commercial vehicle manufacturers, will work with GE to further develop and integrate the HC-SCR technology into complete aftertreatment systems for both the locomotive and off-highway vehicle markets. Once fully developed, the technology will also be offered to customers in the on-road, marine and stationary power markets.
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Risø DTU Developing Electrochemical Method for Diesel Exhaust Treatment
January 30, 2009
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| A sketch of a layered electrochemical filter to be used for removal of soot, hydrocarbons and NOx. The filter converts NO to elemental nitrogen and oxide anions at the electrodes (1). The oxide anions generated, from the reduction of NO, is transported through the electrolyte (2) to the next electrode and is used to oxidize the soot and the hydrocarbons. By using alternating current the electrodes is acting as both anodes and as cathodes. Source: Risø. Click to enlarge. |
Risø, the National Laboratory for Sustainable Energy at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), is developing an electrochemical method for purifying exhaust, especially exhaust gases from diesel engines. The four-year project has received DKK 17 million (US$2.9 million) from the Danish Council for Strategic Research (the Programme Commission on Sustainable Energy and Environment).
Electrochemical exhaust treatment is based on selective membrane processes, where only an electrical current is used as a reagent. The electrochemical membrane consists of an electrolyte that separates a set of porous electrodes, similar to a fuel cell. The electrolyte can conduct ions, but not electrons. The electrodes act as catalysts for the electrochemical reactions.
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Peugeot Introduces 3008 Crossover; Platform for First Production Application of HYbrid4 Technology by 2011
January 15, 2009
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| The new 3008 crossover is the production platform for HYbrid4 technology by 2011. Click to enlarge. |
Peugeot has introduced the new 3008 crossover. The 3008 will be the platform for the first production application in the PSA Peugeot Citroën Group of the HYmotion4 all-wheel drive technology, as unveiled on the Prologue HYbrid4 concept car at the last Paris Motor Show. (Earlier post.) Peugeot plans to launch the all-wheel drive hybrid crossover between now and 2011.
The HYmotion4 technology uses a “through-the-road” design to provide hybrid all-wheel drive. The motor is mounted in either the rear or front of the vehicle, depending upon whether the vehicle is front- or rear-engined, respectively. The Prologue HYbrid4 concept and the production 3008 are front-engined.
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Eaton Licenses Clean Diesel Technologies’ ARIS Systems for HC Injection for Eaton Aftertreatment System
January 08, 2009
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| The Eaton Aftertreatment System combines a fuel reformer catalyst with doser, SCR and LNT technology. Click to enlarge. |
Eaton Corporation has entered into a global non-exclusive licensing agreement for Clean Diesel Technologies’s Advanced Reagent Injector System (ARIS) technology for injection of hydrocarbon (HC) fuel in emissions reduction applications, including the Eaton Aftertreatment System (EAS). (Earlier post.) ARIS technology can also be applied to regeneration of diesel particulate filters and lean NOx traps in various global applications.
The Eaton aftertreatment system combines a fuel reformer catalyst with doser, Selective Catalytic Reduction system (SCR) and Lean NOx Trap (LNT) technology to create an exhaust aftertreatment system capable of meeting 2010 EPA diesel emissions requirements without the need for a urea storage and injection system.
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Volvo Introduces Next-Generation D5 Twin-Turbo Diesel Engine
January 07, 2009
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| Volvo D5 twin-turbo diesel engine. Click to enlarge. |
Volvo Cars is introducing an entirely new 2.4-liter 5-cylinder diesel engine in the Volvo S80. Sharing only the D5 badge and the 5-cylinder configuration with the previous generation, the new D5 is Euro-5 compliant and is more efficient than its predecessor.
Featuring sequential twin turbochargers, ceramic glow-plugs and piezoelectric fuel injectors, the new engine applied in the S80 delivers 205 hp (153 kW) of power and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque, with fuel consumption of 6.2 liters/100 km (38 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 164 g/km.
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Volvo Powertrain to Incorporate Clean Air Power Natural Gas Dual-Fuel Technology into Volvo Truck Engines
January 05, 2009
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| The Dual-Fuel diesel-gas cycle. Click to enlarge. |
Volvo Powertrain has signed a Letter of Intent with Clean Air Power Ltd. to incorporate UK-based Clean Air Power’s Dual-Fuel natural gas technology (earlier post) into Volvo Truck engines. Clean Air Power’s Dual-Fuel application enables diesel engines to operate primarily on up to 85-90% natural gas with diesel pilot ignition.
The letter of intent covers the development and commercialization of products which will include Clean Air Power’s technology and the intention is that they will be marketed and supported by Volvo Trucks.
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Jaguar Introduces New 3.0L Diesel for European Market
December 31, 2008
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| The new AJ-V6D. Click to enlarge. |
Jaguar is introducing a new 3.0-liter diesel engine—the AJ-V6D Gen III—in two power levels in its XF Diesel S sedan for the European market. The new V6 engine, derived from the 2.7-liter diesel, improves fuel economy by 12% and produces 10% less CO2 (179 g/km) than the 2.7L, while increasing power by 33%. The new 3.0L engines are Euro-5 compliant.
The 275PS (271 hp, 202 kW) version delivers 600 Nm of torque, accelerates the sedan from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds, and has combined fuel economy of 35 mpg US (42 mpg UK, 6.7 L/100km)—a 12% improvement in fuel economy over the 2.7-liter V6 diesel. The engine is also available in a 240PS (237 hp, 177 kW) variant, with 16% more power and 15% more torque than the 2.7-liter diesel.
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Honda Adjusts to Deteriorating Markets; Focus on Hybrids and Small Cars, Delayed Introduction of New Diesel in US and Japan
December 20, 2008
In his year-end speech, Honda CEO Takeo Fukui outlined the steps Honda is taking in the short term to deal with the global automobile industry crisis while still addressing the mid- to long-term challenges Honda faces, which “have not fundamentally changed.”
More than ever, Fukui said, Honda will concentrate its resources on the development of fuel-efficient products. “The keys to achieve this goal are advancements of electromotive technologies including hybrid models as well as motorcycles and small cars.”
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PSA Peugeot Citroën and Robert Bosch GmbH Enter Strategic Partnership for Diesel Hybrids
December 09, 2008
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| Bosch develops a range of hybrid technologies and components, including battery, electric drive, brake management, engine management and transmission controls as well as electric motors, the necessary power electronics, and DC/DC converters. Click to enlarge. |
PSA Peugeot Citroën and Robert Bosch GmbH have agreed to a strategic partnership for diesel hybrid technology. The recently signed agreement calls for Bosch to co-develop, industrialize and supply electric motors and power electronics for PSA Peugeot Citroën’s four-wheel-drive diesel hybrid powertrain.
Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on the Peugeot Prologue and Citroën Hypnos concept cars (earlier post) , this diesel hybrid technology will equip Peugeot and Citroën vehicles starting in 2011.
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Delphi Direct Acting Piezo Injector Debuts on the Mercedes C250 CDI
December 01, 2008
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| Delphi Direct Acting Diesel Common Rail System includes (clockwise from top left): DFI3 Piezo Injectors with Common Rail, Series 9 Modular Fuel Filter, DCM4 Light Duty Controller, and DFP3 High Pressure Pump. Click to enlarge. |
Delphi Corporation’s new Direct Acting Piezo injector (earlier post) is making its debut in the new Direct Acting Diesel Common Rail System on the new Mercedes C250 CDI. In the new system, the injector needle is directly activated by a piezo ceramic actuator, removing the hydraulic circuit and its associated lag and energy consumption.
The piezo ceramic actuator directly operates the needle valve of the injector for initial lifts, such as those obtained in pilot injections, and a motion amplifier is used to help complete the lift for large injections. This enables the injector to spray fuel into the combustion chamber faster, with much improved spray momentum and accuracy, at higher pressures (up to 2,000 bar).
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Fiat Extends Bravo Range with New 2.0L Diesel
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| The Bravo 2.0 Multijet. Click to enlarge. |
Fiat has extended its Bravo range with a new 165 bhp (123 kW) 2.0 Multijet with DPF (particulate filter), type-approved to Euro 5 standards. The new diesel is derived from the 1.9 Multijet and offers benefits over its predecessor in performance (+ 18% torque at a lower rpm and +10% power output); emissions; and fuel consumption (-5.4%) over a combined cycle.
The increase in cylinder capacity between the two engine versions was achieved by increasing the bore from 82 mm to 83 mm. The compression ratio was also reduced from 17.5:1 to 16.5:1, enabling a reduction in NOx levels. Compared to the 1.9 Multijet, the 165 bhp engine uses a new type of low voltage spark plugs that allow starting with minimum preheating times.
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Porsche Gets Green Light for Cayenne Diesel; Hybrid Still in the Works
November 20, 2008
Porsche’s Executive Board has approved the production of a Cayenne SUV equipped with a diesel engine. The Board said the decision was in response to changed legal regulations, especially in European markets, resulting in tax incentives for vehicles with diesel engines. Furthermore, it said, Porsche’s stake in the Volkswagen Group, the world’s largest manufacturer of modern diesel engines for passenger cars, has opened up new opportunities to utilize diesel technology.
Porsche will equip the Cayenne with a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine with 240 hp (176 kW) of power and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque supplied by Audi AG, a subsidiary of the VW Group. The average consumption of the Cayenne Diesel is 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers (25 mpg US), with CO2 at 244 grams per kilometer. The new Cayenne diesel will initially be offered in Europe. Preparations for market introduction in other countries are underway.
