Alternatives to Diesel: Questions and Tradeoffs
Alternatives like hydrogen or battery-electric technology, while promising in some cases, still have a long way to go before displacing diesel in any measurable scale in the marketplace
This site uses cookies to optimize your experience. To find out more about cookies, which cookies we use and how you can manage or remove them see our cookie policy. To learn more about our privacy policy and how we use information please go here.
March 17, 2020 | Diesel Technology Forum
Other powertrains have come into the market, particularly with a focus on a hybrid diesel electric powertrain but manufacturers are still overwhelmingly committed to even more efficiency gains using the industry standard – the diesel engine.
CONEXPO-CON/AGG, North America's largest construction trade show took place last week in Las Vegas. Even with global health concerns and news of uncertain oil and gas prices, the triennial event kicked off with acres of huge off-road equipment on display and a focus on automation, connectivity and safety on new equipment that is still dominated by the latest generation of advanced diesel technology. Other powertrains have come into the market, particularly with a focus on a hybrid diesel electric powertrain but manufactures are still overwhelmingly committed to even more efficiency gains using the industry standard – the diesel engine. Many next-generation machines reduce energy loss and improve productivity by incorporating hybrid-electric approaches with battery storage. Caterpillar, for example, had more than 30 machines and roughly ten engine displays that included the latest hybrid technology.
Fully electric off-road equipment is coming into play in some smaller off-road applications, notably a new all-electric backhoe loader from Case Construction called Project Zeus that promises the same breakout force as the diesel model. Remote control and other automated capabilities were also a major focus area at the show.
Diesel has long been the technology of choice to power the world’s largest construction machines and to tackle the most difficult jobs. The unveiling of the newest advanced technology diesel engines for the workhorses of every type of construction project - wheel loaders, backhoes, excavators and bulldozers. These machines come in all shapes and sizes that are able to work in the smallest spaces or move the heaviest loads of material. These are the bread and butter of the construction industry, and the good news is that these machines are now more than 90 percent lower in emissions than a decade ago. One of the greatest opportunities for the construction equipment sector now is simply to get more of the newer technology on the jobsite.
For additional information about the CONEXPO-CON/AGG exhibits and equipment announced and on display at the show, go to the following company websites:
Caterpillar debuted nine new-product introductions from the dozer, excavator, articulated truck and backhoe loader families that deliver improved performance and better fuel efficiency. Five of these new models are diesel hydraulic excavators, featuring advanced engine technology and control system to reduce fuel consumption by up to 25 percent.
Due to the coronavirus, Cummins employees did not attend the show but products were still on display at the booth including the B4.5, B6.7 and L9 Performance Series engines that deliver on average 10 percent more power and 20 percent more torque.
John Deere Power Systems expanded their engine lineup with new options built with a clean-sheet design, driven specifically by customer requirements. The new 13.6 L engine provides more power per liter than the previous 13.5-L configurations, increasing power by 14 percent.
FPT Industrial showcased a variety of off-road engines on its stand including the F28 “DIESEL OF THE YEAR®” 2020 winner.
MTU showcased a full range of dual-certified engines that meet both EPA Tier 4 and EU Stage V emissions requirements.
While Volvo chose not to have staff attend the show, their equipment was still on full display including the heavy-duty EC950F crawler excavator, Volvo CE’s largest excavator which is now available globally, and the R100E rigid hauler for quarrying, mining and mass excavation.
Allen Schaeffer
Executive Director
aschaeffer@dieselforum.org
301-668-7230
What is Clean Diesel?
Share This Page