International to test EPA’s clean diesel technology

MELROSE PARK, Ill., (May 14, 2004) — International Truck and Engine Corp. will test and evaluate the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s clean diesel combustion (CDC) technology invented by EPA’s National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Through a cooperative research and development agreement, they will determine the commercial viability of the technology for meeting stringent automotive Tier 2 emissions levels in 2007 and 2010.

CDC technology encompasses a series of design changes to the diesel engine, intended to decrease nitrogen oxides (NOx) while maintaining or improving engine efficiency. The key concept is the development of in-cylinder NOx control, where NOx emissions are reduced in the engine combustion chamber without penalizing efficiency.

International is evaluating CDC initially for its V-6 diesel-sized SUVs and pickups. The goal is to have products ready for sale by 2007. The company is also looking to adapt the technology to its class 8 lineup for 2010.

“This is not just about cleaning the air, this is about maintaining economic competitiveness,” said EPA Administrator Mike Leavitt in a press conference held yesterday to announce the alliance. He added that environmentally friendly diesel engines in passenger vehicles could save consumer money, reduce health-related and greenhouse gas emissions, and lower U.S. dependence on imported oil.

Daniel Ustian, chairman and president of International’s parent company, Navistar International noted that all Class 8 trucks and virtually all Class 6 and 7 vehicles have diesel engines. About half of heavy pickup trucks are diesel, but “when you go below that there’s no one out there yet,” he said.