EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Evaluation of the Optimizer Device Under Section 511 of the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act

摘要

This report announces the conclusions of the EPA evaluation of the Optimizer device under the provisions of section 511 of the Motor Vehicle Information and Cost Savings Act. The evaluation of the Optimizer was conducted upon the application of the manufacturer. The basic device is a combustion catalyst consisting of an electric fuel heater containing a bed of platinum deposited on an inert substrate. The remainder of the system includes a heater relay, a condenser to cool the fuel to operating temperature, and the associated plumbing. According to the applicant, the device introduces a very small amount of platinum into the fuel. This enhances the combustion process and allows ignition timing to be advanced. The device, coupled with the ignition timing adjustments, is claimed to improve fuel economy, increase performance, and reduce engine maintenance while keeping emissions low. EPA fully considered all of the information submitted by the applicant. The evaluation of the Optimizer device was based on that information and EPA's engineering judgement. The overall conclusion is that, for most vehicles, the device and the prescribed ignition timing adjustments of the engine will cause a small improvement in fuel economy and a large increase in NOx (oxides of nitrogen) emissions.