Synergies between fuel, propulsion and after-treatment technologies for cleaner road vehicles

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine technology has grown significantly in the last decade. It is currently the dominant powertrain in passenger vehicles due to its capacity to improve vehicle fuel economy and reduce CO2 emissions. In 2017 approximately 47% of new vehicles in the EU employed GDI technology; there are, however, two major challenges associated with the technology and its use.

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Firstly, emissions from GDI vehicles are regulated by frequently updated legislative measures regarding the control of particulates and the reduction of gaseous emissions, which occur especially during vehicle cold start. Industry must respond to these regulations to continually improve performance and meet standards.

Secondly, the formation of fuel injector deposits in GDI engines leads to an increase in the production of emissions and eventually to unexpected engine and engine component failure.

Professors Athanasios Tsolakis and Hongming Xu, and Dr Jose Herreros work with industry to develop fuels and environmental catalysts, resulting in impact on global commerce, the economy and the environment. As well as designing and delivering new products, our researchers have directly contributed to a reduction in damaging emissions via a catalytic system and a new gasoline fuel.

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