Audi Introducing New Diesels Globally
Audi has just announced it will be rolling out a new generation of TDI engines globally in 2008 that the carmaker claims will the the “cleanest diesel[s] in the world.” The engines will start with a 3-liter V6 in the Q7 and A4 producing about 240 hp. By 2010 all Audis will be using engines utilizing the applicable technologies.
Features of the new engines include:
- piezoelectric common-rail injectors
- improved recirculation of gas
- improved turbocharging
- unique combustion chamber sensors
- ultra-low emission system running AdBlue
The second annual J.D. Power Alternative Powertrain Study recently revealed that the number of Americans considering buying a diesel powered vehicle is up to 23 percent from the previous measurement of 12 percent. In addition to wanting better gas mileage (usually about a 15 mpg improvement) part of the growing interest in diesels is the increasing availability of ultra-low sulfur diesel and ongoing research in developing even cleaner variants.
Reputedly the emissions in these new Audis are good enough to meet stringent California regulations. Should make for an interesting new take on a venerable brand. Certainly the Audis will heat up the growing war between hybrid and cleaner diesel.