To meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) engine emissions regulations for on-highway applications, ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel must be used in all on-highway diesel engines for 2007,
including Caterpillar 2007 engines with ACERT Technology.
Based on laboratory testing and field validation data, Cat engines for 2007 should continue to meet or exceed customer expectations for fuel economy, engine performance and maintenance. "The power provided by Cat engines won't be affected at all by the use of ULSD fuel," said Greg Gauger, director, Caterpillar On-Highway Power Systems. "Our 2007 engines are designed to run on this fuel and Cat customers should not experience any difference in power compared to current models."
Owners of 2007 Caterpillar C7 and C9 engines could gain up to four percent fuel economy improvement compared to 2006 engines, due to a new, more efficient fuel and air system. In addition to ULSD fuel, the new Cat engines for 2007 will use CJ-4 oil, which is lower in ash and contains less sulfur than previous oils. It is designed to provide longer maintenance intervals for the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The new CJ-4 oil and ULSD fuel can be used in previous engines as well, simplifying maintenance and fueling for owners of earlier model Caterpillar engines.
Similar to current Caterpillar engines with ACERT Technology, the 2007 engine line will be able to use biodiesel fuels. The guidelines for use of biodiesel and biodiesel blends are outlined in Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations (SEBU6251, available from any Caterpillar dealer).