If you are one of those people who demand fuel economy and power in your
vehicle, you would not be disappointed by choosing the diesel engine technology
as diesel engine offers unparalleled reliability.
Through out the years, diesel engines have always experienced favorable response
from car makers. General Motors was the first to take the status of the diesel
engine to the higher level in the 1980s when it modified its 350ci gas V8 so
that it can run on diesel fuel. Although the move was unsuccessful, it paved the
way for future diesel engine experiments.
Not to be outdone, Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen also introduced cars that were
designed to run on a diesel engine. Although many praised the diesel engine for
its durability, people still complained about its noisiness, roughness and
emission of blue smoke.
Major companies were able to realize the big potential of diesel engine. By the
early 1990s, these companies were able to develop clean, smooth and powerful
diesel engines. However these diesel engines were still found lacking in terms
of horsepower, which consumers rave for.
Presently, major car companies like Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen and Ford are
continually competing to develop the perfect diesel engine to grab a share in
the world market.
Through research BMW, was able to develop its BMW 120d, which has 163bhp, and is
capable of going from zero to 60mph in under eight seconds and can run 49.6
miles in just a single gallon. On the other hand, Mercedes Benz developed its
C320 CDI SE, which is considered as the only gasoline engine boasting of a
unique blend of fuel economy and performance. It has a 224bhp and can go from
zero to 60mph in less than seven seconds.
Because of sulfur, diesel engines are having a tough time penetrating the North
American market. We all know that there is a heavy presence of sulfur in the
United States, and this presence can result to more emission and ruin the more
sophisticated diesels used overseas. Although the advent of the ultra low sulfur
diesel fuel, which reduces sulfur content from 500 ppm to 15 ppm, can be the
saving grace of all diesel engines, only time will tell if it will be a success
or not. |
