DOE and Chrysler Collaborate on Innovative Diesel-Gasoline Engine

The Quest for Fuel Efficiency

Car buyers have diverse criteria when selecting a vehicle. While some prioritize luxury or safety, many are increasingly focused on fuel economy due to rising gasoline prices. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average price of gasoline in the U.S. has increased by over 30% in the past decade. This trend has led many consumers to consider hybrid vehicles or those powered by alternative fuels. Hybrid cars, in particular, are popular due to government incentives like tax cuts and favorable financing options.

Chrysler and DOE's Collaborative Effort

To address the growing concern over fuel costs, Chrysler is collaborating with the DOE to develop a new engine concept that maximizes fuel efficiency. This partnership is backed by a substantial investment: $30 million in total, with Chrysler and its partners contributing $15.5 million and the DOE providing the remaining $14.5 million.

The Diesel-Gasoline Engine Concept

The innovative engine being developed by Chrysler and the DOE is designed to use both diesel and gasoline simultaneously. This dual-fuel approach is expected to boost fuel efficiency by 25%. The engine currently under development is a 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder model, which is being compared to Chrysler’s 4.0-liter V6 engine in terms of power output.

How It Works

The engine features three fuel injectors per cylinder: two for gasoline and one for diesel. The diesel injectors enable the engine to operate at a higher compression ratio, thereby improving fuel economy. Additionally, the engine requires two turbochargers—one for high pressure and one for low pressure—to optimize performance.

Advanced Technologies for Enhanced Efficiency

Several advanced technologies are being integrated into the engine to further enhance fuel efficiency:

• Heat Recovery Systems: These systems use the engine's heat to power various vehicle accessories.
• Fuel Shut-Offs: This technology helps conserve fuel by shutting off the engine when the vehicle is idling.
• Automatic Start-Stop Systems: These systems automatically turn off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restart it when the driver is ready to move.

The vehicle will also need two separate fuel tanks to store gasoline and diesel, adding to the complexity but also the potential benefits of the system.

Timeline and Expectations

The project is expected to be operational by 2013, with positive results anticipated shortly thereafter. If successful, this dual-fuel engine could revolutionize the automotive industry by offering a more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional engines.

Interesting Stats

• According to the International Energy Agency, diesel engines are generally 20-30% more efficient than gasoline engines (source).
• The U.S. Department of Energy reports that advanced fuel technologies could reduce fuel consumption by up to 50% in the next decade (source).

By combining the strengths of both diesel and gasoline, Chrysler and the DOE are paving the way for a new era of fuel-efficient vehicles. This innovative approach not only addresses the immediate concern of rising fuel costs but also contributes to long-term sustainability goals.

For more information on fuel-efficient technologies, visit the U.S. Department of Energy's Vehicle Technologies Office and the International Energy Agency.