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Emission rates of benzene-soluble matter (tar), benzo (a) pyrene (BaP), and benz (a) anthracene (BaA) were determined for gasoline engines and automobiles in simulated city driving, and for a diesel engine in simulated city bus operation. A study of the effects of operating conditions and fuel factors indicated that for minimum exhaust emission of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, engines should be operated with minimum lubricating oil in the combustion chamber or exhaust system, maximum air/fuel ratio, and minimum aromatics (especially polynuclear aromatics) in the fuel. On a concentration basis, emissions of BaP and BaA from gasoline engines were greatest during decelerations, and on a mass emission basis were greatest during accelerations. For a group of 25 cars, the average BaP emission rates were 6.6 ug/M3 exhaust or 169 ug/gal gasoline. BaA concentrations were approximately four times higher. Tar emission was approximately 0.2 gm/mile.

This paper summarizes the history and most significant accomplishments of the GMR-GMR&D Fuels and Lubricants Department from its predecessor organization starting about 100 years ago to its demise during a reorganization in the late 1990s. It covers: Combustion research to improve engine efficiency and reduce emissions, Development of chemical, bench, engine, and vehicle tests to improve fuel and lubricant quality, Development of technology to reduce vehicle emissions, Research to understand and reduce air pollution, and Evaluation of alternative fuels and lubricants. In total, the above activities helped not only GM and the worldwide auto industry, but also society. They improved the operation of vehicles and the quality of the air in the United States and around the globe, favorably affecting the lives of hundreds of millions of people. They also created the recognition of and the reputation of the Fuels and Lubricants Department as the best of its kind in the world.