by Zoe Trudeaux

Created on: May 05, 2008   Last Updated: April 30, 2009

In the past, diesel trucks have made a bad impression. They are often thought of as loud, polluting, and foul-smelling. These negative aspects often leave a bad taste in the mouths of consumers. Fortunately, advances in technology will ditch the dirty images and entice a new generation of fans to embrace the powerful and seductive diesel truck.

PROS OF THE DIESEL TRUCK

Certain aspects of diesel trucks have always been admired. One such aspect is fuel efficiency. According to the EPA, if 33% of U.S. drivers switched to diesel vehicles, the country would reduce its oil consumption by about 1.5 million barrels a day. Here are other advantages to consider:

1. Diesel engines run more efficiently and make more power than gasoline engines.

Diesel trucks have higher compression ratios than gasoline vehicles. The higher the compression ratio, the more mechanical energy an engine can squeeze from its fuel/air mixture. The result is better fuel efficiency and prolonged engine life, which can save money in the long run.

2. Diesel trucks retain their value better than most other vehicles.

The diesel engine lasts longer than gasoline engines. With proper maintenance, diesel engines can last 250,000 miles or more.

3. Diesel trucks have a lot of power.

Diesel trucks are torque-heavy performers, which means the engine generates a lot of power even when it is not cycling fast. They can tow more efficiently and safely than gasoline vehicles.

ADVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY

Here are some of the advances that have been made to help eliminate the disadvantages of the diesel:

1. Ultra-Low-Sulfur Diesel fuel

Diesel trucks used to pollute the environment by emitting a large amount of sulfur and nitrogen compounds into the atmosphere. Fortunately, in response to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates that went into effect in late 2006, oil refineries are now producing what is called ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD).

By definition, this clean diesel is 98.5% cleaner than the previous sludge that coursed through fuel delivery systems, and thus produces 97% less sulfur. This breakthrough fuel has led the way for further advances. For example, vehicle manufacturers are starting to build exhaust scrubbing systems for engines that burn ULSD so that a multitude of pollutants are kept out of the air. The process even eliminates the bad odor of diesels.

2. Bio-diesel

Bio-diesel is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oil or animal fats, including soybeans, canola oil, and even used cooking oil. It is sometimes

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