Research database

The overall goal of the research is to promote the parallel development of future powertrain systems and advance biofuel products (HVO, BTL, LC Ethanol, Biomethane, DME, Hydrogen, blends of Biomethane and H2) so as to achieve optimal performance in terms of pollutant emissions and GHG levels on a WTW basis. An innovative engine platform is required, capable of enabling a wide flexibility in adapting the combustion process to the specific characteristics of the fuel blend, thus maintaining the optimum conditions in terms of efficiency and pollutant reduction. In this context, a number of key topics has to be addressed: the identification of the biofuels for highly efficient SI engines featuring virtually zero engine-out emissions; the impact of biofuel blending on combustion; the combustion characteristics of alternative fuels, adaptability of engine performance to changes in fuel quality; on-board fuel quality sensing systems; powertrain calibrations for multiple fuel operating schemes.