Program:
OPEN 2015
Award:
$9,009,265
Location:
San Diego, California
Status:
ALUMNI
Project Term:
04/01/2016 - 07/13/2019

Technology Description:

The team led by Achates Power will develop an internal combustion engine that combines two promising engine technologies: an opposed-piston (OP) engine configuration and gasoline compression ignition (GCI). Compression ignition OP engines are inherently more efficient than existing spark-ignited 4-stroke engines (potentially up to 50% higher thermal efficiency using gasoline) while providing comparable power and torque, and showing the potential to meet future tailpipe emissions standards. GCI uses gasoline or gasoline-like fuels in a compression ignition engine to deliver thermal efficiency on par with diesel combustion. However, unlike conventional diesel engines, this technology does not require the added expense of high-pressure fuel injection equipment and sophisticated aftertreatment systems. The OP/GCI engine technology is adaptable to a range of engine configurations and can be used in all types of passenger vehicles and light trucks. By successfully combining the highly fuel efficient architecture of the OP engine with the ultra-low emissions GCI technology, the resulting engine could be transformational, significantly reducing U.S. petroleum consumption and carbon dioxide.

Potential Impact:

Achates Power will design and demonstrate a more efficient engine that, if successful, will significantly reduce petroleum consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in the United States.

Security:

The new engine design will have better fuel economy, which could reduce the demand for imported oil.

Environment:

This technology has the potential to reduce CO2, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter emissions from vehicles, helping to improve air quality.

Economy:

This team’s engine design could be extremely cost effective and will allow for greater vehicle fuel efficiency at a competitive cost.

Contact

ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Christopher Atkinson
Project Contact:
Mr. Fabien Redon
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
redon@achatespower.com

Partners

Argonne National Laboratory

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Release Date:
01/07/2015