From CarJunky.com
Americans Go For New Generation Of Light Vehicle Engines—Diesel
By
Thu, 19 Jun 2003, 22:56
(NAPSI)—Recent sales figures show pickups outpacing automobiles in popularity and with this increase, sales of diesel-powered light trucks and SUVs have taken an upturn as well. This trend has a lot to do with Americans wanting more bang for their buck when buying an SUV or light truck.
Americans are taking advantage of the advances in technology that have helped the diesel engine evolve into a clean fuel alternative and the most economical choice for towing.
Two out of three people buying best selling Ford F-Series Super Duty pickups choose the Power Stroke® Diesel option as an alternative to a standard gas engine. Americans who appreciate value and are concerned about the environment are drawn to diesels because they offer 30 percent better fuel economy, easier maintenance and longer engine life than gasoline engines while still meeting clean air needs.
Diesel owners can realize substantial savings in fuel totaling equal or better than the cost of the engine after only a year or two of service, and in addition reap added savings from fewer trips to the service bay due to the overall durability of a diesel. The money saved on fuel by owning a diesel-powered vehicle is significantly greater than that of a gasoline powered vehicle. This is one key reason why diesel usage has increased in Europe, powering over one-third of all automobiles, where gas prices are $3 to $4 per gallon.
The average diesel engine can last up to twice as long as a standard gasoline engine, allowing diesel owners to rest easy knowing they will enjoy the performance and financial rewards of their choice for a long time.
The attributes of exceptional fuel economy and longevity, in addition to the diesel engine’s ability to easily tow heavy loads, are appealing to people with active lifestyles who camp, boat, fish, pull an RV or show horses. This is due in part to the engineering of the diesel engine, as well as the fact that diesel fuel produces more power per gallon and is less costly to refine.
Owners of diesel engines are afforded peace of mind knowing their investment is a good choice not only for their wallet, but also for the environment because of the advanced diesel technologies that have made these engines as environmentally friendly as their gasoline counterparts.
Fact vs. Fallacy
These facts are changing old perceptions about diesel engines.
Myth: Diesel engines are dirty and bad for the environment.
Fact: Diesel is the new choice of environmentally conscious automotive buyers. Today’s diesel technology produces virtually smokeless exhaust and 40 percent less of the CO2 emissions associated with global warming than gasoline engines.
Myth: Diesel fuel is available just at truck stops.
Fact: Diesel fuel is available at a growing number of gas stations in cities, suburbs and rural areas.
Myth: Diesel engines are too noisy.
Fact: Advancements in the engineering of diesel engines have lessened and in some cases eliminated the vibration and noise associated with starting and idling a diesel engine.
Myth: Driving a diesel-powered vehicle feels like driving a big truck.
Fact: Diesel-powered vehicles offer a smooth ride and a lot of pull for those who need towing power. Technology advances have closed the gap between gas and diesel engines, leaving the increased performance and reliability of a diesel among the major differences.
Myth: Diesels are hard to maintain, especially in the winter.
Fact: Regular diesel engine maintenance is similar to maintenance for gas engines, including checking the air filter and changing the oil and coolant. With regular maintenance, diesel engines can last up to twice as long as gas engines. And today, many engines like the Power Stroke Diesel start easily at -20ºF without any starting aids.
According to Dan Ustian, president, engine group at International Truck and Engine Corporation, the manufacturer of the Power Stroke Diesel engine, “Diesel technology has been advancing over the last decade and the Power Stroke Diesel has led that advance. The power and performance of diesel is now recognized by consumers who lead a full life and need to tow their hobbies.”
Interestingly, the Power Stroke Diesel, built exclusively for Ford Motor Company by International, has the reputation of being the most powerful, reliable and sought-after diesel in its class. More information about diesels and diesel technology is available by visiting www.international delivers.com.
Diesel engines use about 30 percent less fuel per mile than gasoline, which not only saves money, but helps the environment and conserves natural resources.
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