GM testing combustion engine that could cut emissions by 15%
Wed 29 August 2007
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General Motors is testing a combustion engine that could increase fuel economy in traditional engines by up to 15 percent. The engine would save fuel by using compression of fuel and air, rather than a spark, to produce heat required to power the engine.
According to a report by Reuters, GM says the process will help vehicles get more miles per gallon without requiring technologies that increase the cost of engines. The company is testing the technology in two drivable concept vehicles -- Saturn Aura and Opel Vectra.
GM said it is working to refine the engine before it will be available on the mass market. The process ignites a mixture of fuel and air by compressing it in a cylinder, melding characteristics of a diesel and traditional internal combustion engine.
"Although our development costs have been substantial, we have made tremendous strides," said Prof. Dr. Uwe Grebe, executive director for GM Powertrain Advanced Engineering. "Additional development costs, including research and testing programs, are required to make the technology ready."
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