The powertrain, fuel economy and the environment
by C.A. Amann
International Journal of Vehicle Design (IJVD), Vol. 6, No. 4/5, 1985

Abstract: By using the fuel economy index (the product of fuel economy and vehicle mass) to characterize the efficiency of the powertrain, the historical growth in average powertrain efficiency of the U.S. passenger-car fleet is reviewed. Imposition of emission control caused a temporary retreat, but with the introduction of the catalytic converter, growth was restored. A dramatic decrease in exhaust emissions has accompanied this improvement. The status of such powerplant alternatives as the Stirling, gas turbine, advanced diesel, and stratified-charge engine is considered. None is currently in a position to replace today's petrol engine. Meanwhile, both that dominant engine and its transmission are being continually improved. Gains in engine efficiency are coming from faster burning rates, reduced friction and pumping losses, higher specific output, and better powertrain matching. The advent of on-board electronic control is facilitating these advancements.

Online publication date: Sun, 25-May-2014

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Vehicle Design (IJVD):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com