Experimental work was performed to determine the fuel-economy potential of eighteen 1976 model automobiles representing six different models ranging in weight from 3,000 to 5,000 lb. The fuel-economy potential was determined by adjusting the engines to best fuel economy achievable with acceptable driveability but without constraints on emissions. Comparable data obtained on the vehicles adjusted per manufacturers' specifications provided baseline data from which to quantify fuel-economy differential brought about by imposing emission controls to meet 1976 Federal emission standards. In results of tests with six different 1976 model automobiles, combined city/highway fuel economy improved within the range 4.3 to 14.1% when constraints upon engine parametric adjustments were removed. The average fuel-economy improvement for all six car models was 8.6%. Results on fuel economy and emissions for urban, highway, and steady-state driving cycles are discussed. (ERA citation 03:015402)
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