Members of the Diesel Technology Forum were on Capitol Hill this week to talk about the role of clean diesel technology in addressing climate, energy and environmental concerns. Members of Congress, their staff and other policymakers heard first-hand about the pivotal role that a wide range of diesel technology plays today and tomorrow in improving energy security, fueling environmental progress and powering the U.S. economy.  Several Members of Congress acknowledged the positive contribution of clean diesel technology in addressing today’s pressing energy and environmental concerns in their remarks to attendees, including Reps. Bartlett (MD), Bono-Mack (CA), Costa(CA), Etheridge (NC), Kind (WI), and Shimkus (IL).

Clean Diesel Cars & Trucks

• Compared to gasoline, diesels are 20-40% more fuel efficient and emit 20% less CO2.
• If diesels made up 15% of the passenger fleet, the U.S. would save 17 billion gallons of fuel, 413 million barrels of oil and 205 million metric tons of CO2 by 2038.

Upgrading Emissions Performance: Clean Diesel Retrofit

• Upgrading and retrofit of existing diesel engines and equipment can achieve 20-90% lower emissions, and is a proven and cost-effective clean air solution.
• Engine upgrades, installation of new emissions control devices and other steps return $13 in public benefits for every $1 investment.

Clean, Energy-Efficient Transportation Infrastructure

• Starting in 2010, heavy-duty diesel and natural gas vehicles will test to the same near-zero emissions standards.
• Diesel hybrid-electric technologies can improve fuel economy between 30-50%.
• New off-road construction equipment, locomotives and marine vessels will phase in similar emissions standards over the next decade.