Ricardo single-cylinder research engine to support DFCV in ongoing R&D

Ricardo has been selected by DongFeng Commercial Vehicles (DFCV) to supply a complete turnkey solution for an advanced single-cylinder diesel research engine and associated vital laboratory equipment, to support the firm – one of China’s biggest truck makers – in fundamental engine research.

As per the terms of the agreement, Ricardo will supply its latest advanced heavy-duty diesel single-cylinder unit – the Proteus 300 engine, which is capable of running to 240 bar combustion pressure and equipped with unique combination of latest state-of the-art technologies, including the Ricardo patented low soot Twin Vortex Combustion System. Other features of this state-of-the-art unit include an advanced high-pressure fuel system and Variable Valve Timing (VVT), ensuring full flexibility; a four-valve dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) arrangement; variable swirl intake ports and a primary and secondary balanced cranktrain.

This advanced research machine, together with the laboratory equipment also supplied, will support DFCV fundamental research and investigation on key areas such as efficient and low soot combustion systems, combined precise injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and boosting strategy, all of which are instrumental to the development of next-generation clean and fuel efficient diesel engines for heavy duty applications.

Ricardo Asia president Gary Tan commented: “I am delighted that Ricardo has been chosen by DFCV to supply this advanced Proteus 300 single-cylinder research engine and support their ongoing engine research programme. Following on from our successful earlier work with the company on developing and implementing improved technologies for natural gas heavy duty truck engines, we look forward to enjoying further fruitful and enduring collaboration with DFCV.”