The Diesel Advantage:
Recent advances in diesel engine technology have provided a gateway for new uses of diesel engines. Gasoline engines have long been the choice of automakers in powering most cars, SUV's, and light trucks. However, a new age of diesel powered vehicles is upon us, and for good reason.
The Modern Diesel...
A diesel engine is a 4 cycle internal combustion engine that runs on diesel fuel. Though sharing many familiar components with gasoline engines, there are many differences between the 2, and many advantages of using diesel over gasoline. One of those advantages is fuel economy. Diesel engines are much more efficient than gasoline, and here is why:
Diesel engines use air compression to create combustion. Compressing air on the compression stroke of the diesel cycle generates enough heat to combust diesel fuel upon injection. Compression ignition is a much more efficient method of igniting than using electric spark; it ensures a more complete and efficient burn throughout the air/fuel mixture. The increased compression ratio of a diesel, in comparison to a gasoline engine, also increases the fuel economy potential. Summary: More efficient combustion process, one less item to service (spark plugs).
Diesel fuel denser than gasoline, and carries 10 percent more energy content per gallon. The increased energy content translates into less fuel consumption for operation in comparison to a gasoline engine. Summary: More energy + efficient combustion = increased fuel economy.
Diesel engines have a longer life span than gasoline engines due and require less maintenace due to larger & stronger components. It is normal for a well maintained diesel engine to last +300,000 miles without any major mechanical malfunctions. Summary: Not a fuel saving advantage, but a money saver nonetheless.
Due to their superior efficiency and the latest technology, diesel engines emit far less carbon dioxide, which has been linked to global warming, than gasoline engines do. Engineers have also managed to rid diesel emissions of diesel soot, an indication of incomplete combustion. Summary: Go green and enjoy better fuel economy at the same time.
Diesel engines have long had the reputation of providing poor performance and acceleration. Modern diesels actually have a broader power band then gasoline engines, produce more torque then gasoline engines, and produce peak power at a lower RPM than gasoline engines. This all translates into maximum efficiency at cruising speeds and more useable power at all times. Summary: Wanna race?
Biodiesel refers to a non-petroleum based diesel fuel, commonly refined from vegetable oil. It can be used alone, or blended with conventional petroleum diesel fuel. Diesel engines can run on biodiesel with no modification, however, if using a 100 percent blend of biodiesel some small modifications may be necessary to maintain the life span of the engine. Biodiesel production is increasing rapidly, as is the availability of Biodiesel at fuel stations within the United States. Summary: Should not be a surprise; the first diesel engine ran on peanut oil.
They're clean, efficient, and can run on vegetable oil. The race is on amongst automakers to produce efficient diesel powered cars, trucks, and SUV's. Many manufactures have diesel options available on new models, and all major manufactures have diesel options on the way. Modern diesel engines have overcome the disadvantages of earlier models, and you will never regret the money that you invest in a diesel engine powered vehicle. The diesel engine has all the features you are looking for: durability, torque and reliability. In the end, it is money well spent.
