Title: The powertrain, fuel economy and the environment

Authors: C.A. Amann

Addresses: Engine Research Department, General Motors Research Laboratories, Warren, Michigan 48090-9057, USA

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.

Keywords: exhaust emissions; fuel economy; powertrain; vehicle design; fuel consumption.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVD.1985.061398

International Journal of Vehicle Design, 1985 Vol.6 No.4/5, pp.588 - 591

Published online: 25 May 2014 *

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