The Diesel Technology Forum's participation in the 2008 Washington Auto Show's Green Car Summit will put green technology in the spotlight once again. Many new and future vehicles will be on display at the show, featuring clean diesel powertrains, exceptional fuel economy and proven technology. "With nearly 20 new and prototype diesel vehicles on display during Detroit's auto show, and many on their way to Washington, 2008 will be the 'year of clean diesel,'" says Allen Scheffer, executive director of the Diesel Technology Forum, a coalition of vehicle manufacturers, engine makers, components suppliers and energy companies. "The unveiling of these new models shows that automakers are investing in this high performance, environmentally friendly technology." The anticipated expansion of clean diesel cars and light trucks in the U.S. is driven by many factors, most notably the arrival of diesel engines held to the same emissions standards as gasoline-powered engines. The nationwide introduction of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel in October 2006, 97 percent cleaner than previous diesel blends, has enabled manufacturers to engineer the world's cleanest diesel vehicles. Nearly a dozen automakers have announced plans to sell clean diesel versions of popular cars, pickups and SUVs in the U.S. by the end of this decade. "The new diesels are clean, quiet, fun to drive and don't require consumers to sacrifice power or performance to achieve better miles per gallon. The significant number of models introduced this year makes it an extremely exciting time for the U.S. diesel market," Schaeffer adds. Diesel cars, trucks and SUVs provide 20 to 40 percent better mileage and emit 10 to 20 percent fewer greenhouse gases than comparable gasoline vehicles. In addition to superior fuel economy and reduced emissions, American drivers who purchase cleaner-burning diesel cars, trucks and SUVs are eligible for similar tax incentives as purchasers of gasoline-hybrid electric vehicles. During International Media Day, Schaeffer will participate in Green Car Journal's inaugural Green Car Summit on a panel comprised of automotive, energy, and government leaders. The Summit will convene at 2:00 p.m. at the Washington Convention Center and will address such topics as reducing CO2 greenhouse gas emissions and exploring strategies for oil displacement and long-term sustainability. Moderators include Green Car Journal's Ron Cogan and Warren Brown, automotive columnist for The Washington Post. Diesel vehicle announcements made in 2008 include:
Key facts about diesel include:
For more information on the Diesel Technology Forum, visit the group's Web site. |
