General Motors (GM) has announced that it is set to introduce a low emission diesel engine in future years.

The car manufacturer has said that it expects to unveil a four-valve V-8 light diesel engine for the US market by 2009 that is expected to improve fuel economy by around 25 per cent and meet the country's increasingly tough environmental stipulations.

The Duramax 6.6L V-8 turbo-diesel engine is expected to meet laws for diesel engines from January that will require all new vehicles to offer a 50 per cent reduction in Nitrogen Oxide emissions and a 90 per cent cut in terms of particulate matter.

The new offering is set to provide a happy medium between the large diesel engines used in GM's pickup trucks in the US and the small engine offered for cars designed for the European market.

Sports utility vehicles and pickup trucks are expected to be the initial beneficiaries of the new engine.

"This new GM light-duty diesel is expected to become a favourite among customers who require excellent towing ability and fuel efficiency," Tom Stephens, group vice president of GM Powertrain Group, commented.

"It will meet the stringent 2010 emissions standards, and it will be compliant in all 50 states, making it one of the cleanest diesel vehicles ever produced."

New engine control software, an improved capacity cooling system, increased combustion control and use of low-ash oil are among the measures designed to ensure that the new engine is GM's cleanest ever diesel offering.


Ÿ Adfero Ltd