Here in the U.S., where diesel engines have traditionally powered large trucks and not passenger vehicles, clean diesel technology is sometimes overlooked in discussions about the future of transportation in the emissions age.
However "clean" diesel powertrains, which provide significant power, as well as increased fuel economy, are beginning to gain attention at auto shows such as last week’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit and the 2008 Washing Auto Show which continues through the weekend.
Based on the automotive industry’s need to reduce emissions, it is anticipated that we will soon see more and more clean diesel cars and light trucks on U.S. roadways.
Diesel cars, trucks and SUVs provide 20% to 40% better mileage and emit 10% to 20% fewer greenhouse gases than comparable gasoline vehicles, according to the Diesel Technology Forum, a coalition of vehicle manufacturers, engine makers, components suppliers and energy companies. In addition they can run on blends of biodiesel, a significantly cleaner and domestically produced fuel.
The nationwide introduction of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel in October 2006, 97% cleaner than previous diesel blends, has enabled manufacturers to engineer even cleaner diesel vehicles, and nearly a dozen automakers have announced plans to sell clean diesel versions of popular cars, pickups and SUVs in the U.S. by the end of the decade.
"With nearly 20 new and prototype diesel vehicles on display during Detroit’s auto show, and many on their way to Washington, 2008 will be the ‘year of clean diesel.’ The unveiling of these new models shows that automakers are investing in this high performance, environmentally friendly technology," said Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum.
The Diesel Technology Forum also notes that American drivers who purchase cleaner-burning diesel cars, trucks and SUVs are eligible for similar tax incentives as purchasers of gasoline-hybrid electric vehicles .
"The new diesels are clean, quiet, fun to drive and don’t require consumers to sacrifice power or performance to achieve better miles per gallon. The significant number of models introduced this year makes it an extremely exciting time for the U.S. diesel market," Schaeffer said.
Significant diesel announcements in 2008 include:
- Volkswagen will introduce an updated clean diesel Jetta into the U.S. market this year.
- GM has plans to put a diesel engine in the Chevy Silverado beginning in 2009.
- Toyota will launch a diesel-powered Tundra pickup truck and Sequoia SUV in the U.S. soon.
- Honda announced plans to put diesel engines in Acura vehicles starting in 2009, with the Honda lineup to follow.
- Several automakers revealed concept cars such as the Chrysler Jeep Renegade, Mercedes GLK Freeside, Land Rover LRX, Audi R8 V12 TDI and the Mitsubishi RA, further widening the field for the future of clean diesel technology.
Loading...