Diesel Passenger Vehicle Growth Accelerates in the U.S.

Irwindale, Calif. — The growth of diesel passenger vehicles in the U.S. market continues its acceleration as the country becomes more aware of the numerous advantages diesel offers. At the same time, the industry continues to develop technological solutions to ensure diesel passenger vehicles remain an environmentally responsible option. “Given the increase in demand and availability for diesel passenger vehicles over the last several years, and a new consumer tax credit that went into effect this month, we predict the U.S. market for light diesel vehicles will reach 15 percent over the next 10 years,” said John Moulton, president, powertrain division, Robert Bosch Corporation. “Bosch will support this growth through continuing to provide advanced diesel engine technology, such as fuel injection and aftertreatment and engine management systems.” The advantages offered by today’s diesel passenger vehicles, in comparison to gasoline vehicles, include an average increase in fuel economy of 30 percent; a decrease incarbon dioxide emissions by up to 25 percent; and, an increase in torque — the force that allows cars to accelerate smoothly and powerfully — of up to 50 percent. The benefits of diesel passenger vehicles have far-reaching implications. Diesel’s fuel economy advantage can save consumers an average of $250* a year at the fuel pump. “Diesel passenger vehicles offer a no-compromise solution, ” said Moulton. “Diesel gives consumers the fuel economy and performance they desire. At the same time, diesel provides the means to decrease carbon dioxide emissions and reduce dependency on foreign oil — issues of particular importance in the California market.” According to a model developed by the U.S. Department of Energy, if diesel vehicles make up 30 percent of the U.S. market share by 2020, the U.S. could save 350,000 barrels of oil a day, reducing the country’s dependence on foreign oil.  Increasing demand for these and other advantages of diesel has led to significant growth in the range of diesel vehicle options available in the U.S. Seventeen diesel vehicle models are currently offered for sale in the U.S. today, including entry-level cars, SUVs and pick-up trucks, a 55 percent increase in availability since 2000. “According to a recent study by R.L. Polk & Company, response by U.S. consumers has been so strong that between 2000 and 2004, annual registrations of diesel passenger cars, trucks and SUVs increased nearly 56 percent,” said Moulton. U.S. demand for diesel passenger vehicles is expected to grow stronger after Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards take effect next year. Diesel passenger vehicles are expected to meet the new standards through a combination of ultra-low sulfur fuel, available nationwide in October, as well as advanced fuel injection and aftertreatment technologies. For more than 75 years, Bosch has lead the way in making diesel advantages a reality through major technology advancements. Over the last decade, Bosch has introduced technology that dramatically improves performance while making diesels clean, quiet and efficient. Bosch technology for diesel engines includes high-pressure common rail and unit injector systems, both vital to emissions reduction, and improved performance and fuel economy. The company is currently working with many automakers to advance the momentum of clean diesel technology. The Bosch Group is a leading global manufacturer ofautomotive and industrial technology, consumer goods, andbuilding technology. In fiscal 2004, some 242,000 associates generated sales of 40 billion euros. Set up in Stuttgart in 1886 by Robert Bosch (1861-1942) as "Workshop for Precision Mechanics and Electrical Engineering," the Bosch Group today comprises a manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service network of some 260 subsidiaries and more than 10,000 service centers in over 130 countries. In North America, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial automation and mobile products, power tools and accessories, security technology, packaging equipment and household appliances. Bosch employs approximately 23,000 associates in more than 80 primary facilities throughout North America and reported sales of $7.8 billion in 2004. For more information, visit www.bosch.us.