BOSCH Develops Dual-Fuel Equipment for Trucks and Buses
06 June 2008
Auto parts giant Robert Bosch is planning a serious entrance into the market for dual-fuel equipment for trucks and buses, she launched recently such a system on the Brazil market. After a low-key two year development period, using technology originally developed by DieselGas in New Zealand, Bosch has released an aftermarket conversion kit here promising diesel substitution rates of up to 90%.
Conditions in Brazil are ideal both for the development and release of the kit, says Robson Carlos Marzochi, the local marketing manager for Bosch. “Natural gas for vehicles is well understood already, and the economics are favorable for fleet operators to convert,” he stated.
Depending on duty cycles, Marzochi estimates that the Bosch kit, fully fitted with four CNG cylinders for around R$30,000 (approximately $18,000 U.S.), has a payback period of around 18 months for a typical bus or truck fleet operator.
Engine families compatible with the system currently include VW MWM and Mercedes-Benz OM series engines with more expected to be added in the near future.
A dedicated development team of up to 30 engineers has worked on perfecting the system over the past two years. As well as producing expected economic benefits, the system also delivers air quality benefits, reducing particulates by 75%.
Brazil is just the beginning for Bosch in the dual-fuel market, with development work already under way in Asia and other markets. Initially focusing on Euro II mechanical engines, the company also has its eyes set on electronic and lower emission engines.
Source : english.chinabuses.com
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