The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has earmarked $8.4 million to support the development and demonstration of technologies aimed at increasing the efficiency of engines and powertrain systems for highway transportation vehicles.
Four projects are receiving the funding, according to the DOE. These initiatives will focus on making innovations that achieve ‘breakthrough thermal efficiencies while meeting federal emission standards for passenger vehicles – cars and light trucks – as well as commercial vehicles, including long-haul tractor trailers.’
In Cambridge, Mass., Filter Sensing Technologies will use $2 million in funding to develop and demonstrate low-cost sensors and controls that can reduce the overall cost and complexity of engine and emission control systems, while delivering tangible performance benefits. The initial focus will be on U.S. heavy-duty vehicles.
Â
GM has received $1.4 million to pursue a novel technology that enables the use of high dilution in combustion chambers, which can significantly improve the fuel economy of vehicles compared to conventional engines.
Â
Eaton Corp., which was granted $2.5 million, will develop and demonstrate advanced component technology for heavy-duty diesel engine waste-heat recovery systems that are capable of improving the fuel economy of heavy-duty vehicles.
Â
Also, MAHLE Powertrain LLC will use $2.5 million to develop a next-generation combined ignition/turbo-charging concept that will enable the implementation of ultra lean-burning technology to engines, ‘improving efficiency and significantly reducing the formation of pollutants, such as oxides of nitrogen,’ the DOE says.
