Economic assessment of different bus engine technologies and fuels for the future
conference paper
In the recent past, research into gaseous fuelled engines and other clean vehicle technology was mainly directed towards the demonstation of certain technologies. This resulted in many different technologies, all capable of establishing significant reductions of polluting emissions. Many different factors have determined the direction in which the development of these demonstrators and prototypes has taken. Now, with a clearer view on the emission legislation policy that will come into force, technology developed can be extended towards the production of engines and vehicles that will satisfy the requirements. Although very important, compliance with the emission legislation is not the only issue that determines a successful introduction of technology. Market forces will take their effect and in the end the most attractive technical and economical concept will triumph. In the field of diesel engines, research developments have been directed towards making the engine cleaner and less noisy. Gas engine research has been focused on making a potentially very clean engine, more fuel efficient and more durable and reliable. Provided the concept complies with all legal constraints, at the end of the day, operational costs will be the determining factor for a concept to gain a place on the market. A very important factor is the anticipated stability of operational costs. Governments need to make long-term commitments to stable taxes and excise duties.
TNO Identifier
362570
Article nr.
VM9704
Source title
Mostra-Convegno Internazionale GPL Auto GPL Nuova Frontiera, 14-16 November 1997, Rome, Italy
Collation
18 p.
Place of publication
Delft
Files
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