February 2008 (Medialink) - Diesel engines have a reputation on American highways for being loud, large and dirty. When most drivers think diesel, they think of transit buses and semi trucks, not passenger cars. But, in many European countries this is not the case. In fact, their highly refined diesel engines are smooth and quiet and make up over 60% of passenger cars.

A diesel engine gets on average 25% better fuel economy than a comparable gas engine. In Europe, where fuel prices can be double what they are in the U.S., diesels are a popular choice. So, why aren't they popular in America? The answer is emissions. The U.S. has the highest emissions standards for passenger cars in the world.

American manufacturers are currently working on producing advanced engines that will meet, and in some cases, beat comparable gas engines in emissions, fuel economy and torque. General Motors already offers turbo diesel in its heavy duty pickups, full-size vans and medium duty trucks. They also announced that their engine plant in New York will produce a new advanced turbo diesel engine for light duty pick-up trucks and passenger cars in the near future.