US government pumps $187m into truck fuel efficiency projects

The US government yesterday further increased support for the country's ailing automotive industry, announcing over $180m in funding to projects working to improve the fuel efficiency of cars and trucks.

The announcement covered nine projects, and totalled $187m, including funding from the private sector. The Department of Energy said the projects will create 500 jobs in the short term, but could generate up to 6,000 positions in manufacturing within the next five years.

"Improving the efficiency of our vehicles is critical to reducing America's dependence on foreign oil and addressing climate change," said Energy Secretary Steven Chu. "Today's awards will help demonstrate the potential benefits for long-haul trucks and passenger vehicles and will play an important role in building a more sustainable transportation system for the country."

The projects fall into two broad categories: three projects will receive up to $115m to improve the efficiency of large-scale class 8 long-haul trucks by up to 50 per cent, while a further $71m will be shared between six projects focused on improving the fuel efficiency of passenger vehicles and power train technologies.

Automotive technology firm Cummins Inc was the big winner, securing a total of $53.8m for investment in the development of a high-efficiency diesel engine, an advanced waste heat recovery system, and an aerodynamic tractor and trailer combination.

Meanwhile, Daimler Trucks picked up $39.5m towards its research into engine downsizing, electrification of auxiliary systems, and waste heat recovery.

Other recipients included Ford Motors, and General Motors, who received $15m and $7.7m respectively. Ford aims to develop a gasoline engine with a 25 per cent fuel economy improvement, while General Motors will focus on an engine that uses lean combustion and active heat management, along with an emissions control system.

The Department of Energy said that the combined projects could reduce the level of carbon emissions from road transport in North America by 20 per cent by 2030.