INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES AND ENVIRONMENT

Solution of energy and environmental problems is one of the main tasks of modern times. This paper points out the role of internal combustion engines, especially diesel engines, in the global energy sector and specifically in road transport, consumption of natural resources, negative impact on the environment and global warming. The directions for further improving the efficiency of diesel engines and power plants in road transport are given. These directions are related to the implementation of existing reserves to improve engine efficiency, design, manufacturability, environmental performance and the use of alternative fuels. The leading role of the internal combustion engine as a power plant for vehicles will be complemented in the future by the increased use of hybrid plants consisting of a diesel engine, electric generator, drive motors, energy storage, microprocessor control and optimum control systems. Hybrid plants will be used in passenger transport for urban and intercity haulage, to be installed on private vehicles. When adapted to hybrid plants transmissions, the concept of diesel engine improvement will change in the direction of providing higher operating efficiencies, economic and environmental performance in high boost modes while simplifying its design.