The Department of Energy (DOE) and three heavy-duty diesel engine manufacturers are working together to make diesel engines used for 18-wheelers more fuel efficient and reduce their impact on the environment.
Under the terms of the project, approximately $5 million will be awarded during the first year of the partnership between the federal government and the manufacturers Caterpillar Inc. of Peoria, Ill.; Cummins Engine Co. of Columbus, Ind.; and Detroit Diesel Corp. of Detroit.
"The latest research partnership between the Energy Department and the heavy-duty vehicle industry is a win-win situation," Energy Secretary Bill Richardson said. "It will reduce America's reliance on imported oil, maintain the economic viability of our industries and improve air quality."
DOE estimates the research, which is aimed at reducing the fuel required to transport goods, will also help to reduce operating costs for drivers of large trucks. This new project is the third and final part of the previously announced heavy vehicle truck research program.
The three industry teams will develop high efficiency, clean diesel engine technologies for diesel engines used in 18-wheel trucks and match DOE funding on a one-to-one ratio.