For years, diesel fuel has been fighting an u
phill battle to reverse its bad reputation as a smoggy, environmentally damaging means of vehicle power. However, in the past decade, measures have been put in place to make diesel one of the most eco-friendly fuels in the world.
Considering the fact that diesel engines have evolved so drastically in such a short amount of time, it’s important to reflect on the myths and misconceptions that this common fuel has quickly debunked.
Fiction #1: Diesel engines are not fuel-efficient.
Fact #1: Contrary to popular belief, diesel engines are nearly 30% more fuel-efficient than their gas-driven counterparts. For the past five years, petroleum diesel has been nearly 12% more dense than gasoline, giving it the highest thermal efficiency of any standard combustion engine.
Fiction #2: Cars with diesel engines are more expensive to own.
Fact #2: Diesel fuel is commonly cheaper than gasoline, especially in California. Moreover, because of their super-sturdy construction, diesel engines typically require less-frequent maintenance, making them operate much longer than gas-driven vehicles.
Fiction #3: Diesel-run vehicles are slow and loud.
Fact #3: Though diesel engines may have been slow, loud, sluggish things in the 70’s, they have made strides in efficiency since then. Today diesel fuel has more stored energy than it’s gas counterparts, making it more powerful and fuel-efficient than ever before. Though the engines may be louder than gas-powered cars, this is simply due to the combustion cycle gradually igniting the fuel to create power.
Fiction #4: Diesel fuel is bad for the environment.
Fact #4: In the past decade, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency created the most highly regulated emissions laws in the world. With allowable emissions levels reduced by nearly 90%, common diesel fuel is not only better for the environment, but it also has greater fuel economy, stronger performance and faster throttle response than ever before.
For more information on diesel myths and facts, and for all of your diesel product needs, contact FleetServ, the experts in all things engines.
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