on 2001/1/10 12:58, Keith Adams at keith_adams@transcanada.com wrote:

> Write to your congressman.  As I understand it one of the big problems
> with bringing further TDI technology here is the poor quality of diesel
> fuel in the U.S.  Any changes to fuel standards are vehemently opposed
> by the trucker lobby as the cost of fuel would rise further.  Also,
> since many states are banning the sale of diesel powered passenger cars
> (california, NY) that adds a further complication...
>
> (that oughta start a good fight!)
> Keith

Actually I just heard on the radio about a week ago that much to the protest
of the truckers and truck engine manufacturers the EPA or whoever governs
such things passed the new diesel emissions law which I believe fully takes
effect in 2007. In order for engines to meet the new emission requirements
low sulfur fuel will be required which will increase fuel costs but help
make the air cleaner. Many of the large diesel engines in fleet vehicles are
going to be switching over to alternative fuels such as CNG and biodiesel to
meet the emissions requirements.

I think the latest generation of European TDI engines will meet the
requirments if run on low sulfur fuel. I heard one reason VW doesn't sell
the 150 horsepower 1.9l TDI engine in the US is because the US fuel is too
dirty for it.

AFAIK there is no ban on diesel powered passenger cars in California where I
live. A friend bought a 1999 TDI Beetle. VW had set a voluntary quota for
California of what percentage of the vehicles it sells in California are
diesel powered. As a result TDI Beetles have been selling for up to $7000
over list price in California. So he bought it in another state.

Also I believe vans and pickups are held to a lower pollution standard than
cars (though that is changing in the next few years along with the safety
standards as so many people are using light trucks as cars).

Zach Kaplan