Diesel News: POST HERE
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Likes to Drive and Ride
That's exactly what I was thinking as I read this, 'gearing matters', sometimes a lot. I didn't look at the article to see what the gearing was for this test, but from what I've read of the new 2011 Power Stroke Ford has kept the axle ratios quite high, 3.55 being the lowest one can order with a SRW (single rear wheel) truck. This makes sense with their focus of keeping fuel economy UP. If the trucks have the torque and power, which it sounds like they do (on paper), then these taller gears will likely work for most users.
Of course changing the tire size, tranny gearing/programing, or adjusting the load by a few thousand pounds up or down can also dramatically affect the results. As can the driver.
Interesting times with stock diesel pickups making almost double the torque and horsepower of a 1994-1997 7.3L Power Stroke.
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Likes to Drive and Ride
Gears & Programing
Read the linked article. I don't see where it says what gear they were using for the hill pulling test, it's unclear if they just let the transmissions do their thing or if they were manually controlling things to keep the comparison more similar as on the dyno. I assume they let them rip?
I would think that the 4.30 ratio of the F450 would be a clear advantage, and surely it is for starting a load, reducing load on the tranny, and moving more gross weight, though not necessarily for moving less weight at speed. If the weight of the load was higher, say 15k or so, it would seem the F450 with its 4.30 would have a much easier time moving the load than the 3.73 truck. All this gearing talk has me wondering how an F350 with 3.55 would compare.
Similar to what I said above, programming is everything these days.
Yes, these trucks have substantial power/torque and it impressive what they can do with taller gears. There was a time when I wouldn't consider a new truck with anything higher than 4.10:1 in the diffs, having experienced both lower and higher gears in a couple platforms and generally much preferring lower gears. For someone more concerned about grunt and less about speed, and possibly modifying the overall/final ratios with taller tires, I usually prefer lower geared trucks. But several years ago these Big Boys settled on the 3.73 as an all around compromise for their SRW trucks. Now Ford is going even taller with 3.55 as the lowest SRW ratio.
Read the linked article. I don't see where it says what gear they were using for the hill pulling test, it's unclear if they just let the transmissions do their thing or if they were manually controlling things to keep the comparison more similar as on the dyno. I assume they let them rip?
I would think that the 4.30 ratio of the F450 would be a clear advantage, and surely it is for starting a load, reducing load on the tranny, and moving more gross weight, though not necessarily for moving less weight at speed. If the weight of the load was higher, say 15k or so, it would seem the F450 with its 4.30 would have a much easier time moving the load than the 3.73 truck. All this gearing talk has me wondering how an F350 with 3.55 would compare.
Similar to what I said above, programming is everything these days.
Yes, these trucks have substantial power/torque and it impressive what they can do with taller gears. There was a time when I wouldn't consider a new truck with anything higher than 4.10:1 in the diffs, having experienced both lower and higher gears in a couple platforms and generally much preferring lower gears. For someone more concerned about grunt and less about speed, and possibly modifying the overall/final ratios with taller tires, I usually prefer lower geared trucks. But several years ago these Big Boys settled on the 3.73 as an all around compromise for their SRW trucks. Now Ford is going even taller with 3.55 as the lowest SRW ratio.
Wards Automotive is reporting that GM's vice chairman remarked that GM will bring a diesel powered passenger car to market at some time in the future. The remarks were made at a recent conference on auto efficiency and emissions control.
In a somewhat related development, Volvo announced recently that they have a 1.6L turbodiesel that returns 60 mpg in compact vehicles like the Volvo C30 and S40. The new engine meets the Euro 5 emissions standards that go into effect in January 2011.
In a somewhat related development, Volvo announced recently that they have a 1.6L turbodiesel that returns 60 mpg in compact vehicles like the Volvo C30 and S40. The new engine meets the Euro 5 emissions standards that go into effect in January 2011.
VW/Audi is redesigning its 3.0L V6 turbodiesel to meet the new Euro 5 emission control standards. Power output is reduced considerably (from about 400 ft-lbs of torque to about 330 ft-lbs). However, when paired with a new 8 speed automatic, over the road performance is not affected that much.
The new V6 diesel was reworked with an eye on efficiency, too. The engine is lighter and has less internal friction. Coupled with the 8 speed and automatic engine stop-start in city driving, the new engine returns about 32 mpg overall in European tests when installed in the Q7, Audi's big SUV.
This result is a significant improvement over the V6 diesel in the current Q7. For 2011, the Q7 imported to USA is rated by the EPA to deliver just 20 mpg.
The new Euro V engine won't make it to USA until the 2012 model year, and may not have the same efficiency because USA emission standards will require a different tune. But a seven passenger SUV with all wheel drive that delivers about 30 mpg will make many buyers happy, and other manufacturers jealous.
More information here
http://green.autoblog.com/2010/10/27/audi-q7-suv-equipped-with-new-3-0-liter-v6-tdi-returns-32-7-mp/
The new V6 diesel was reworked with an eye on efficiency, too. The engine is lighter and has less internal friction. Coupled with the 8 speed and automatic engine stop-start in city driving, the new engine returns about 32 mpg overall in European tests when installed in the Q7, Audi's big SUV.
This result is a significant improvement over the V6 diesel in the current Q7. For 2011, the Q7 imported to USA is rated by the EPA to deliver just 20 mpg.
The new Euro V engine won't make it to USA until the 2012 model year, and may not have the same efficiency because USA emission standards will require a different tune. But a seven passenger SUV with all wheel drive that delivers about 30 mpg will make many buyers happy, and other manufacturers jealous.
More information here
http://green.autoblog.com/2010/10/27/audi-q7-suv-equipped-with-new-3-0-liter-v6-tdi-returns-32-7-mp/
The EPA has released the first draft of new rules that will set emissions and fuel economy standards for heavy diesel powered trucks. The EPA is working with the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Transportation Agency to set the standards. A 90 day period for public comment on the proposed rules is now under way.
There are three vehicle categories: Pickups and vans that weigh more than 8500 lbs, semis ("tractor trailer rigs"), and on-road vocational vehicles like cement mixers, fire trucks, and other trucks with custom chassis and body. Today, these vehicles have no fuel economy standards.
Most ExPo vehicles that are not already covered by EPA rules will fall in the pickups and vans category. I think that a vehicle like an Earthroamer will be considered a pickup since it's based on the Ford F550. A vehicle based on a Unimog, such as a Unicat camper, might be considered a vocational vehicle.
For pickups and vans, the new rules aim to set emissions standards at the same level as required for light diesel cars and trucks. Unlike cars, the heavy trucks will have their fuel economy targets adjusted based on the truck's payload rating.
After considering the comments submitted by the public, the EPA will set the new standards, which will be effective in 2014. At this point, the goal for fuel economy is a 10% improvement from 2014 levels by 2018.
According to a news item on the Pickuptrucks.com web site, the cost of meeting the standards just proposed may be $1200 to $1600 by 2018. The technologies to achieve the standards already exist, including reducing weight, improving aerodynamics, reducing engine friction losses, and moving to 7 or 8 speed transmissions.
More reading on the subject:
http://green.autoblog.com/2010/10/2...r-fuel-efficiency-and-emissions-standard-pro/
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/1...-trucks-will-raise-efficiency-and-prices.html
There are three vehicle categories: Pickups and vans that weigh more than 8500 lbs, semis ("tractor trailer rigs"), and on-road vocational vehicles like cement mixers, fire trucks, and other trucks with custom chassis and body. Today, these vehicles have no fuel economy standards.
Most ExPo vehicles that are not already covered by EPA rules will fall in the pickups and vans category. I think that a vehicle like an Earthroamer will be considered a pickup since it's based on the Ford F550. A vehicle based on a Unimog, such as a Unicat camper, might be considered a vocational vehicle.
For pickups and vans, the new rules aim to set emissions standards at the same level as required for light diesel cars and trucks. Unlike cars, the heavy trucks will have their fuel economy targets adjusted based on the truck's payload rating.
After considering the comments submitted by the public, the EPA will set the new standards, which will be effective in 2014. At this point, the goal for fuel economy is a 10% improvement from 2014 levels by 2018.
According to a news item on the Pickuptrucks.com web site, the cost of meeting the standards just proposed may be $1200 to $1600 by 2018. The technologies to achieve the standards already exist, including reducing weight, improving aerodynamics, reducing engine friction losses, and moving to 7 or 8 speed transmissions.
More reading on the subject:
http://green.autoblog.com/2010/10/2...r-fuel-efficiency-and-emissions-standard-pro/
http://news.pickuptrucks.com/2010/1...-trucks-will-raise-efficiency-and-prices.html
Here's another alternative drivetrain that could replace diesel in many light vehicle applications.
Audi is set to introduce the Q5 SUV hybrid at the LA auto show later this month. The Q5 will be powered by a 2.0L turbocharged gas engine, teamed up with an electric motor. Running in combination, the gas engine and electric motor can produce 241 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque.
Audi's 3.0L turbodiesel, as used in the larger 2011 Q7 SUV, produces 225 hp and 406 lb-ft. EPA mpg estimate is 17 city, 25 highway, 20 mpg in combined driving. The Q5 hybrid is reported to return 27 mpg in combined driving, a 35% improvement.
More information here
http://www.worldcarfans.com/1101109...gn=Feed:+worldcarfans/Jxfz+(WorldCarFans.com)
Audi is set to introduce the Q5 SUV hybrid at the LA auto show later this month. The Q5 will be powered by a 2.0L turbocharged gas engine, teamed up with an electric motor. Running in combination, the gas engine and electric motor can produce 241 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque.
Audi's 3.0L turbodiesel, as used in the larger 2011 Q7 SUV, produces 225 hp and 406 lb-ft. EPA mpg estimate is 17 city, 25 highway, 20 mpg in combined driving. The Q5 hybrid is reported to return 27 mpg in combined driving, a 35% improvement.
More information here
http://www.worldcarfans.com/1101109...gn=Feed:+worldcarfans/Jxfz+(WorldCarFans.com)
Wards Automotive is reporting that Mercedes is firming up plans to expand the use of diesel engines in vehicles sold in USA. On the list to receive new diesels are the 2012 GLK compact SUV and the 2013 C-Class sedan. Both will utilize a new direct injection 2.2L 4 cylinder turbodiesel that uses Bluetec urea injection to clean up the exhaust emissions.
http://wardsauto.com/home/diesel_glk_set_101117/
The 2.2L diesel produces about 200 hp and 350 lb-ft. of torque. In Europe, Mercedes sedans using this engine get better than 40 mpg. The boxy GLK will probably have a highway MPG rating around 35 mpg.
http://wardsauto.com/home/diesel_glk_set_101117/
The 2.2L diesel produces about 200 hp and 350 lb-ft. of torque. In Europe, Mercedes sedans using this engine get better than 40 mpg. The boxy GLK will probably have a highway MPG rating around 35 mpg.
The production of diesel fuel from non-traditional feedstocks is reaching a commercially viable scale.
Making diesel fuel from organic waste feedstocks is the specialty of a Finnish company, Neste Oil. Neste has two plants in Finland that produce diesel from wood chips and other waste products. The company just opened a new plant in Singapore to process waste from palm oil plantations. Together, the three plants have the capacity to produce more than 8.5 million barrels of diesel fuel annually. A fourth plant is under construction in the Netherlands.
The Neste diesel product can be used in any diesel engine without modification. The fuel is reported to reduce tailpipe emissions by 40 to 80%, compared to diesel produced from fossil oil.
Read more about Neste Oil here http://www.nesteoil.com
Making diesel fuel from organic waste feedstocks is the specialty of a Finnish company, Neste Oil. Neste has two plants in Finland that produce diesel from wood chips and other waste products. The company just opened a new plant in Singapore to process waste from palm oil plantations. Together, the three plants have the capacity to produce more than 8.5 million barrels of diesel fuel annually. A fourth plant is under construction in the Netherlands.
The Neste diesel product can be used in any diesel engine without modification. The fuel is reported to reduce tailpipe emissions by 40 to 80%, compared to diesel produced from fossil oil.
Read more about Neste Oil here http://www.nesteoil.com
Viggen
Just here...
"According to a well-known Mopar source, entries in Chrysler's new car dealer ‘Star' network show codes for impending diesel engine and hybrid-electric transmission options in Ram 1/2 ton pickups.
The diesel is rumored to be a Cummins 5.0-liter V8 turbocharged engine, which despite having two more cylinders than the straight-six (shown) which powers Ram Heavy-Duty models, is designed for less extreme applications, making it an ideal fit for the 1/2 ton Ram.
Meanwhile the ‘hybrid' refers to the AHS-T gearbox that was found in the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrids, which is listed, along with three other transmission options – a six-speed Getrag manual, plus the 42RE and 545RFE four and five-speed automatics.
However, there's been no announcements of an impending diesel Ram and based on the fact that both Ford and GM have postponed their light-duty diesel trucks, the new rig may not actually materialize at all. Even if it does, it might take some time, along with steadily increasing fuel prices before Chrysler considers the diesel Ram and hybrid transmission a seriously feasible option (mid 2011 or early 2012 likely being the earliest date).
[Source: Allpar]"
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/12/ram-1500-to-get-cummins-diesel-hybrid-versions.html
The diesel is rumored to be a Cummins 5.0-liter V8 turbocharged engine, which despite having two more cylinders than the straight-six (shown) which powers Ram Heavy-Duty models, is designed for less extreme applications, making it an ideal fit for the 1/2 ton Ram.
Meanwhile the ‘hybrid' refers to the AHS-T gearbox that was found in the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrids, which is listed, along with three other transmission options – a six-speed Getrag manual, plus the 42RE and 545RFE four and five-speed automatics.
However, there's been no announcements of an impending diesel Ram and based on the fact that both Ford and GM have postponed their light-duty diesel trucks, the new rig may not actually materialize at all. Even if it does, it might take some time, along with steadily increasing fuel prices before Chrysler considers the diesel Ram and hybrid transmission a seriously feasible option (mid 2011 or early 2012 likely being the earliest date).
[Source: Allpar]"
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/12/ram-1500-to-get-cummins-diesel-hybrid-versions.html
Corporate teammates VW and Audi are having success selling diesel powered vehicles. Audi just reported that diesel engines are under the hood in 70% of A3 sport wagon sales, and 45% of Q7 SUV sales. Audi plans to have diesel engine options available in all its models by 2015.
VW's diesel-powered Jetta Sportwagen TDI came out on top in a Consumer Reports test of non-hybrid cars that deliver high mpg. CR's test drivers recorded 49 mpg in highway tests using a 6 speed manual transmission. That's almost 17% better than the EPA's rating of 42 mpg highway.
VW's diesel-powered Jetta Sportwagen TDI came out on top in a Consumer Reports test of non-hybrid cars that deliver high mpg. CR's test drivers recorded 49 mpg in highway tests using a 6 speed manual transmission. That's almost 17% better than the EPA's rating of 42 mpg highway.
Storz
Explorer
My mom just bought a 2011 A3 TDI last weekend :victory:
They were so impressed with our 05 Jetta TDI that they had to have one, and my mom has always wanted a sporty wagen. Its a DAMN nice car.
Autoblog is reporting that the next generation of Jeep Compass and Patriot, due in 2013 or 2014, may have a diesel option. The new cute-utes will be based on a new Fiat platform that will be diesel-powered in Europe.
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/17/chrysler-pondering-diesel-for-u-s-jeep-compass-and-replacement/
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/17/chrysler-pondering-diesel-for-u-s-jeep-compass-and-replacement/
charlieaarons
Explorer
Now if someone (probably German) would just come out with a US version AWD CAR station wagon or sedan with a diesel, not a SUV. Like the BMW 530xd wagon with a 6 speed manual trans.
And if I can figure out a work-around of the EGR and DPF system on our X5 35d to increase the wintertime(city) mpg from 20 to 25-27....
Charlie
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so after wondering if there is any additional information regarding the subaru diesel, the first thing that pops up on google is:
www.boxerdiesel.com
i check it out, and I am getting all excited :wings: with the "its here" and blah blah blah.
Then I go to the fuel effiecent, and its states that it can achieve in km/liter............and my heart sinks.
I go to the distributers page, and yep. no united states of america, the land of the free.
talk about getting a bad case of blue balls
www.boxerdiesel.com
i check it out, and I am getting all excited :wings: with the "its here" and blah blah blah.
Then I go to the fuel effiecent, and its states that it can achieve in km/liter............and my heart sinks.
I go to the distributers page, and yep. no united states of america, the land of the free.
talk about getting a bad case of blue balls