Daimler Chrysler is expecting the popularity of diesel-equipped vehicles to grow in the U.S. and plans to be ahead of the curve in terms of research and technology. Thomas Weber, head of R&D for DCX, thinks that diesel use could one day reach the 50% level here that it enjoys in Europe, especially as low-sulfur diesel fuel becomes widely available to U.S. customers next year.
The role of diesel fuel in the U.S. consumer auto market will be interesting to watch in the next few years as more and more manufacturers consider selling diesel-equipped models in the states. Hybrids, however, are the current indie rock stars of the auto industry, so is investing in diesel technology rather than hybrid or even hydrogen fuel cell technology a risky move? Considering that the market for diesels in Europe is so large, we tend to think that shipping that technology to the U.S. would be a relatively small investment. Wouldn't it be great if every manufacturer just offered us the choice of a hybrid, internal-combustion or diesel engine in its vehicles?
More diesel discussion:
Jaguar to build diesel XJ
A diesel MX-5?
EPA hesitates to allow new diesel emissions technology
JD Power predicts more diesels and hybrids
Jeep Liberty CRD off to strong start
Chrysler may increase Liberty diesel production
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