Clean Diesel - Isn't that an Oxymoron?

Monday January 7, 2008

People just love diesels--don't know exactly what it is, but there's just somethin' about 'em. Scott actually considers himself a "dieselaholic" with no real chance of recovery. And next to hybrids, our diesel pages are among the most popular sections on our website.

So knowing that, you probably wouldn't be surprised to find out that we get tons of questions about diesel engines, diesel fuel, biodiesel, and, last but not least, modern clean diesel technology. Folks want to know what makes a clean diesel a clean diesel. Well, in a nutshell, it's the emissions (or lack thereof). Diesels have a nasty reputation for being extremely ... you know, dirty. But that's no longer true. Worldwide, emissions standards for diesel engines have been tightened to the extent that they are on par with gasoline engines. Yes, you heard that right. A brand new diesel engine built today emits pollutants no more offensive than those of a freshly manufactured gasoliner. How? Glad you asked. Check out this list of emissions devices and the test processes heaped on today's clean and efficient diesel powerplants.