ELECTRONIC ENGINE CONTROLS - AVAILABILITY, DURABILITY, AND FUEL ECONOMY EFFECTS ON 1983 AND LATER MODEL YEAR LIGHT-DUTY TRUCKS

The application of microprocessor technology to optimize the functions of the internal combustion engine is underway. Passenger car model years 1980 and 1981 have seen the widespread introduction of electronic engine controls of varying degrees of complexity. These controls hold the promise of lowering engine emissions and raising engine fuel economy through the optimization of the combustion processes at all engine operational conditions. This paper examines the potential of this technology for use in the future light-duty truck fleet. The implications of this technology on fleet fuel economy, in conjunction with the more stringent emission standards in 1983, are examined along with projections as to the future availability and durability of these microprocessors and their associated engine sensors.

• Corporate Authors:

  Environmental Protection Agency

  Standards Development & Support Branch, 2565 Plymouth Road
  Ann Arbor, MI  United States  48105
• Authors:
  • Nugent, T
  • Diatchun, Z
  • Cox, T
• Publication Date: 1980-6

Media Info

• Features: References;
• Pagination: 19 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Combustion; Control devices; Durability; Electrical equipment; Electronic control; Exhaust gases; Fuel consumption; Internal combustion engines; Light trucks; Microprocessors; Optimization; Supply; Technology assessment; Trucks
• Uncontrolled Terms: Availability
• Subject Areas: Energy; Highways; Motor Carriers; Vehicles and Equipment; I96: Vehicle Operating Costs;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00318752
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: EPA-AA-SDSB-80-11 Tech Rpt., HS-030 918
• Files: HSL, TRIS
• Created Date: Oct 27 1983 12:00AM