D.C. Gets a Glimpse of Clean Diesel Technologies

The Diesel Technology Forum held its clean diesel power showcase Tuesday in Washington, D.C., drawing industry leaders, senior government officials, members of the media and user group representatives

. The purpose of the event was to not only showcase clean diesel technology, but to discuss the issues surrounding diesel power technology.

The event featured displays of diesel-powered vehicles, including Mack Trucks' Pinnacle tractor and Volvo's EPA'10-compliant Volvo VN. The event also showcased equipment for a variety of industry sectors and functions.

Mack's Pinnacle model is outfitted with selective catalytic reduction emissions control system to comply with the EPA's 2010 standards. The trucks is equipped with a 60-inch midrise sleeper and a 13-liter Mack MP8 engine.

Representatives from Volvo Trucks North America were also on hand at the event to discuss the company's readiness for the 2010 EPA standards with lawmakers and regulators. Volvo, which will also use SCR to meet regulations, displayed its Volvo VN, which is being built on its production line in the New River Valley plant in Dublin, Va. The company expects the trucks to be ready for delivery later this year.

"A new generation of clean diesel technology is already in place that uses a combination of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel; advanced, fuel-efficient diesel engines; and highly effective emissions control devices," the Diesel Technology Forum said. "Diesel's unsurpassed energy efficiency enhances America's energy security by reducing our reliance on oil imports as more clean diesel vehicles are added to the fleet."

Speakers also included representatives from the EPA, Caterpillar, Cummins, the American Trucking Associations, the Associated General Contractors of America, and the Maryland Ports Administration.