BMW is recognized as a world leader in powertrain technology- and their efforts to create efficient performance have lately pointed them in the direction of diesel, hybrids and even hydrogen power.
With alternative fuels getting more attention than ever, some wonder where the beloved, familiar and proven gasoline-burning engine stands.
Engineers are making gasoline engines more efficient than ever- and they're still a far easier sell than a diesel or hybrid to most North Americans.
But has modern science and technology tapped the gas-engine for all it's worth? Will it drive off into the sunset to clear room for more efficient options?
I talked to Tom Baloga, BMW North America's group VP of Engineering to find out. Baloga was the former Manager of Safety Engineering for Mercedes-Benz USA, a senior test-engineer for Mack Trucks and is the primary inventor on multiple US and foreign patents.
He's responsible for engineering in areas including Environmental, Product Development, and Product Analysis at BMW. We spoke while he visited BMW's Whitby, Ontario headquarters last month.
J.P.: What's wrong with gasoline? Why are we hearing so much about hybrids, diesels hydrogen and electric lately?
T.B.: Energy independence for North America is critical, and that's what's driving out new technologies. The price and source location of fossil fuel is an issue- and ultimately, we need to move away from it.
Technology is being introduced to help recognize energy independence, but emissions are an issue too. We have a great handle on this at BMW, and all of our cars meet California emissions standards for low pollution. It used to be smog that was the major concern- but lately, reducing CO2 is a new and difficult challenge- furthering the need to move away from fossil fuels.
J.P.: Hybrids and diesel powered cars are proving their ability to reduce fuel consumption and emissions with minimal driving compromise. Are shoppers buying these machines in masses?
T.B.: Generally, shoppers aren't looking for alternative fuel- they're looking for the best value. Alternative fuel vehicles aren't usually on anyone's shopping list. Instead, people want long range value- like great fuel economy and power, without paying extra. Except for hybrids, there's not a high priority right now.
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| BMW Hydrogen 7 |
With alternative fuels getting more attention than ever, some wonder where the beloved, familiar and proven gasoline-burning engine stands.
Engineers are making gasoline engines more efficient than ever- and they're still a far easier sell than a diesel or hybrid to most North Americans.
But has modern science and technology tapped the gas-engine for all it's worth? Will it drive off into the sunset to clear room for more efficient options?
I talked to Tom Baloga, BMW North America's group VP of Engineering to find out. Baloga was the former Manager of Safety Engineering for Mercedes-Benz USA, a senior test-engineer for Mack Trucks and is the primary inventor on multiple US and foreign patents.
He's responsible for engineering in areas including Environmental, Product Development, and Product Analysis at BMW. We spoke while he visited BMW's Whitby, Ontario headquarters last month.
J.P.: What's wrong with gasoline? Why are we hearing so much about hybrids, diesels hydrogen and electric lately?
T.B.: Energy independence for North America is critical, and that's what's driving out new technologies. The price and source location of fossil fuel is an issue- and ultimately, we need to move away from it.
Technology is being introduced to help recognize energy independence, but emissions are an issue too. We have a great handle on this at BMW, and all of our cars meet California emissions standards for low pollution. It used to be smog that was the major concern- but lately, reducing CO2 is a new and difficult challenge- furthering the need to move away from fossil fuels.
J.P.: Hybrids and diesel powered cars are proving their ability to reduce fuel consumption and emissions with minimal driving compromise. Are shoppers buying these machines in masses?
T.B.: Generally, shoppers aren't looking for alternative fuel- they're looking for the best value. Alternative fuel vehicles aren't usually on anyone's shopping list. Instead, people want long range value- like great fuel economy and power, without paying extra. Except for hybrids, there's not a high priority right now.