Diesel will continue key role at Daimler

Diesel engines will continue to play a key role at Germanys Daimler, says Herbert Kohler, the carmaker’s head of group research and advanced engineering vehicle and powertrain. Kohler said the company has planned DiesOtto engine, and hybrid and full-electric powertrains will help the company meet future challenges. Our research shows that we have the potential to meet Euro 6 (emissions) standards with further internal engine measures, if necessary. We could thus do without expensive exhaust treatment systems. That would make diesels more affordable. The company could build four-cylinder engines with the output of a six- or an eight-cylinder powertrain for Europe but also considers China and Russia, where there is strong demand for 12-cylinders. This powertrain will become our world engine, which in principle can be used in every model line from the A class to the S class. I do not believe that the DiesOtto will completely replace the diesel engine. We can use it to simplify our engine offerings with the goal of lowering costs. This process will take place in steps, he said. (September 4, 2008)