FEV evaluating diesel emission control technology

In a study sponsored by a government/industry consortium and managed by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory, FEV Engine Technology is evaluating the sulfur tolerance of an advanced NOx absorber catalyst/diesel particulate filter system. The work is part of an effort to develop a diesel emission control system strategy capable of meeting emission requirements that will take effect in 2007.

FEV is testing regulated and unregulated emissions from ultralow sulfur diesel fuel in an Audi A4 to determine effects on performance and durability. The firm is using engine dynamometer and vehicle-based FTP, SFTP and HFET tests, and has implemented an advanced catalyst aging process, as part of the project to help develop a strategy for meeting federal tier II emission standards, which call for reduced sulfur levels in automotive fuels. All cars and light trucks must meet tier II standards by 2007.

Test results for the A4 vehicle indicate that both tier II standards and future emission standards can be met with a fuel economy penalty of less than 5%. In its next phase of testing, FEV will evaluate long-term aging performance.