Detroit Diesel Pursues Light-Vehicle Business

Detroit Diesel Corp., which has built its reputation in the world of heavy-duty truck engines, has developed a new 4L V-6 diesel aimed directly at the pickup or sport/utility market.

Dubbed DELTA (Diesel Engine Light Truck Application), the powerplant features four valves per cylinder and a common rail fuel delivery system that enhances power without increasing particulate emissions.

Separately, DDC is expanding capacity for its Series 60 heavy-duty diesel from 255 to 300 engines per day. The expansion is partially in response to provisions in its new labor agreement with United Auto Workers Local 163.

On the lower end of the market, Chairman Timothy D. Leuliette says the company is dropping 2-stroke diesel engines from its portfolio, partly because of new stricter emissions standards for on- and off-highway vehicles.

DDC unveiled the new 4L diesel prototype in a Dodge Durango, insinuating that DDC's ties with Chrysler Corp. might mean it would be the first automaker to use the engine in a North American vehicle.

Charles E. Freese, DDC director of automotive sales, says DELTA would achieve between 25% and 40% better fuel economy over a 4L gasoline V-6 while generating up to 210 horsepower.