The Diesel Engine as Benchmark for Future Automotive Powertrains

In the course of the intensive discussions regarding the introduction of electric vehicles, the protection of resources, and the reduction of CO2-emissions the question might be posed whether and how long Diesel engines could serve as powerplants for vehicles. Looking back into the development history of the Diesel engine of the last 40 years we can state that this kind of engine took an astonishing positive development especially in the last 20 years which was not foreseen even by knowledgeable and skilled people in the field of engines. The view back and a comparison based on main engine data of "yesterday" and "today/tomorrow" gives a clear view. Moreover, the consequent further development indicates a considerable further potential both in the passenger car and the commercial/industrial engine field. This paper shows that the Diesel engine can be even further improved by use of multiple, basically known measures and technologies, and that for instance regarding fuel economy and CO2-emissions further reductions in the order of up to 20% both in the passenger car and the commercial vehicle segment seem to be possible.