Turbochargers manufacturer Cummins Turbo Technologies revealed the results of a R&D project that aims to improve fuel efficiency by 5% and reduce CO2 emissions during a visit by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg.
The Engine Waste Heat Recovery Research Programme, which received funding through the Regional Growth Fund in October 2011, is now developing and testing a green technology that recovers wasted heat from various points of the engine and uses it to increase overall efficiency.
The extra power can be channelled into useful electrical (5kWe) power in the engine system, replacing alternator systems and aiding significantly growing electricity requirements in modern trucks.
Since receiving the funding the engineering company has designed, sourced and built an advanced waste heat turbine expander prototype, which incorporates an electrical generator, designed in collaboration with Cummins Generator Technologies in Stamford.
Executive director for product line management and marketing, Mark Firth, commented: “We are committed to creating next generation technologies and enhancements that reflect the changing priorities of global engine and vehicle manufacturers. The RGF has enabled us to push the technological boundaries of what has previously been achieved in the automotive industry.”
The £1.47 million of funding has resulted in nine full-time jobs being created in research and development, with more than 30 staff from across the business having contributed to the work undertaken to date.
The funding adds to Cummins Turbo Technologies’ own investment in the development of new engineering talent and future technologies.
The Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, said: “Just like in Yorkshire, local economies across the country are seeing the direct benefits of this funding through new jobs and additional investment. That is what the Regional Growth Fund is all about.”
