August 25, 2006 -- General Motors Corp. will adopt a new V-8 turbo-diesel engine for all its North American light-duty trucks by 2009. The auto giant says its new engine design will have 25% better fuel efficiency than comparable gasoline-powered V-8s, but will supply “class-leading torque, power, and refinement.”
Also, the new dual-overhead cam, four-valve diesel will sized for the same space occupied by a small-block V-8 gasoline engine, a fit that is made possible by using an integrated air system and narrow block.
Presently, GM sells over 1 million diesel engines per year, in 17 different variants for 45 different vehicle models, worldwide.
According to information provided by GM, the new engine will have aluminum cylinder heads with integrated manifolding, compacted graphite iron block for a strong engine base, and fracture-split main bearing caps and connecting rods for a precise fit. A high-pressure, common-rail fuel system will be capable of injecting fuel five times per combustion event to control noise and emissions, GM states.
Tom Stephens, group v.p. for GM Powertrain, said: "This new GM light duty diesel is expected to become a favorite among customers who require excellent towing ability and fuel efficiency. 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."
Among the environmental benefits GM highlights: a 13% reduction in CO2 emissions versus gasoline engines, and at least a 90% reduction in particulates and NOx versus current diesel engine designs. It will be the first GM engine to employ a NOx after-treatment system with a diesel particulate filter in an effort to achieve the Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV 2 emissions standards.