Advanced technology
How is it possible? The new Duramax features high-tech systems to create less pollution. An advanced combustion process, known as homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI), not only provides significant fuel savings but also helps the engine meet current emission standards. It works with every combustion engine, including diesels.
Essentially, HCCI accelerates valve closing after the combustion so as to preserve a certain amount of heat energy. Air is directly injected through a central (not lateral) direct injection system before being compressed. Taking advantage of the hot air allows optimum temperature control. Once the right temperature has been reached (monitored by sensors inside each cylinder), gas ignition ensues.
The result is a steady, instantaneous and flameless release of energy throughout the entire combustion chamber, which eliminates all residues and ensures a cleaner combustion process.
"Even better, since we can spark an ignition at a lower temperature, we eliminate the entire production of NOx from our diesel engines and thus reduce toxic emission levels by 80 percent," said Mathias Alt, HCCI Program Manager.
Right now, HCCI is still in experimental stages. It can be found on two prototypes of Saturn Astra and Opel Vectra.
"HCCI and the emergence of new clean diesels are further proof that GM is going ahead with its green development strategy and focusing on technologies other than electricity and hydrogen. For us, the key is diversity," claimed Charlie Freese.
photo:General Motors
How is it possible? The new Duramax features high-tech systems to create less pollution. An advanced combustion process, known as homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI), not only provides significant fuel savings but also helps the engine meet current emission standards. It works with every combustion engine, including diesels.
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| HCCI prototype |
Essentially, HCCI accelerates valve closing after the combustion so as to preserve a certain amount of heat energy. Air is directly injected through a central (not lateral) direct injection system before being compressed. Taking advantage of the hot air allows optimum temperature control. Once the right temperature has been reached (monitored by sensors inside each cylinder), gas ignition ensues.
The result is a steady, instantaneous and flameless release of energy throughout the entire combustion chamber, which eliminates all residues and ensures a cleaner combustion process.
"Even better, since we can spark an ignition at a lower temperature, we eliminate the entire production of NOx from our diesel engines and thus reduce toxic emission levels by 80 percent," said Mathias Alt, HCCI Program Manager.
Right now, HCCI is still in experimental stages. It can be found on two prototypes of Saturn Astra and Opel Vectra.
"HCCI and the emergence of new clean diesels are further proof that GM is going ahead with its green development strategy and focusing on technologies other than electricity and hydrogen. For us, the key is diversity," claimed Charlie Freese.
photo:General Motors
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