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Cummins Westport Meets 2010 Emission Requirements in 2007! (or "Why Use NG Engines After 2007?")
As far back as January 2005 Cummins Westport reported its plans to offer stoichiometric natural gas engines with cooled EGR, using a three-way catalyst (similar to that used in light-duty gasoline vehicles) to control emissions and meet 2010 EPA emissions standards in 2007. A stoichiometric engine uses just the right amount of air to completely burn its fuel, compared to older sparked-ignited natural gas engines, which use the "lean burn" (excess air) system, similar to diesel engine operation.
While diesel engine and related operating costs have increase substantially to meet the 2007 emissions requirements and are expected to increase further in 2010, Cummins Westport's stoichiometric NG engine meets 2010 regulations without complex aftertreatment, and with an approximate five percent improvement in fuel economy. Their Life Cycle Cost (LCC) model estimates this could bring the annual cost (including infrastructure) of owning and operating natural gas transit buses down below diesel in the 2007-2009 period, and have further LCC benefits in the post 2010 time period. This new technology platform also allows for further NOx reduction beyond 2010.
For further information on Cummins
Westport and Deere’s plans, contact Gordon Exel at
Cummins Westport, 604-718-8384, gexel@cumminswestport.com).
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