Caterpillar says its ACERT technology will comply with ’07 EPA emissions requirements. Cat’s ’07 solution will use existing ACERT technology along with closed crankcase ventilation, a diesel particulate matter (PM) filter system with active regeneration and Clean Gas Induction (CGI) enhanced combustion process. Engines with 500 hp or less will need one PM filter; engines with more than 500 hp will need two. The CGI focuses on NOx reduction by drawing clean, inert gas from downflow of the PM filter, cooling it and putting it in the air intake system.
Caterpillar’s MorElectric technology will offer customers fuel-saving idling alternatives, using the same technology that is advancing the development of hybrid automobiles. The system uses electric power from a 7,300-watt generator, which replaces the alternator, to provide heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Power comes from an auxiliary power unit (APU) or shore power. Caterpillar says its APU system cuts idling fuel consumption to about 0.2 gallons an hour, and its shore power system improves total fuel economy by 10 percent.
Caterpillar’s two on-highway automatic transmissions, designed for vocational applications, will be available in 2006. The heavy-duty, six-speed CX31 will be compatible with Caterpillar’s C11, C13 and C15 engines up to 500 hp. The super heavy-duty, 8-speed CX35 will match up with the higher horsepower ratings of the C15. The transmissions will be compatible with competitors’ engines of similar rating.
