Vehicle Designs and Engineering

How government regulations are changing engine designs and the showroom floor

Auto manufacturers are under pressure to design cars to meet the demands of numerous outside influences. Regulatory requirements, consumer tastes, rising fuel prices and technology innovations all play a role in shaping automobile designs.  New engine and component designs drive the development of lubricant and additive technologies.  New vehicle technologies are transforming passenger vehicles.

How auto manufacturers are responding to market demands:

• Developing smaller displacement engines to achieve improved power, fuel economy, durability, and lower emissions rather than utilizing larger, less efficient engines. 
• Increasing the number of "city car" models they are offering, i.e. Honda FIT, smart car, Nissan Versa, Yaris. 
• Increasing the number of diesel powered cars available in the U.S. beginning in 2008. These engines will include new technology to address noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), emissions and fuel economy. In Europe, diesel passenger vehicles already represent more than 50 percent of new vehicles sold. New technology is enabling diesel engines to meet more stringent diesel emissions standards, improve driver acceptance and significantly lower fuel consumption.
• Expanding the variety of hybrid vehicles available to satisfy consumer tastes.  Hybrid models for the environmentally-minded, frugal, adventurous and luxury oriented consumer are becoming available.  Next generation hybrids include diesel/electric, gasoline/electric and hydrogen fuel cell technology. (BusinessWeek)
• Offering more crossover vehicles models such as the Ford Edge, Saturn Vue, Dodge Journey (09) and the Infiniti EX35.
• Providing E85 bio fuel options in passenger cars and light duty trucks.