Now that 2007 mandates for diesel engines have been fully-implemented, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is gearing up to enforce new diesel exhaust regulations that take effect in 2010. The new regulations will dramatically reduce discharges of both particulate matter (soot and ash), hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide (NOx).
EPA’s goal for 2010 is to reduce NOx emissions to 0.2 grams per brake horsepower-hour, or about 90% of pre-2004 levels. Meeting the reduced pollutant standards has required a change in diesel fuel to ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel (ULSD), a cleaner-burning fuel that produces less particulate emissions from combustion. The standards have also required a reformulation of engine oils, called CJ-4 or low-ash oils, which are designed with better wear protection, higher oxidation protection and better soot handling characteristics.
For some businesses, making a choice between diesel and gasoline engines continues to be a challenge. Benefits of gasoline engines include lower cost, better access and lower price fuel, quieter operations, easier maintenance and faster cab heater warm-up. On the other hand, diesel engines have advantages such as better fuel economy, greater warranty period coverage and higher resale value, as well as fewer tune-ups and longer maintenance intervals.
While there clearly are positive and negative attributes of each engine, the most important consideration is to analyze how vehicles will be used.
Jay de la Houssaye, Area Sales Manager for Enterprise Fleet Management/Louisiana, can be reached at 504-779-3321. Serving the entire South Central Louisiana area, de la Houssaye is supported by an experienced team of veteran mechanics and accredited Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) technicians to serve the fleet maintenance needs of businesses with mid-size fleets. In addition to maintenance management programs, Enterprise’s services include vehicle acquisition, fuel management and insurance programs, as well as vehicle registration, reporting and remarketing. Visit the company’s web site at www.enterprisefleet.com or call toll free 1-877-23-FLEET.