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Alternative combustion modes for spark ignition engines, such as homogeneous lean combustion, have been extensively researched in transportation and large stationary power applications due to their inherent emissions and fuel efficiency benefits. However, these types of approaches have not been explored for small engines (≤ 30 kW), as the various applications for these engines have historically had significantly different market demands and less stringent emissions requirements. However, going forward, small engines will need to incorporate new technologies to meet increasingly stringent regulatory guidelines. One such technology is jet ignition, enables lean combustion via air dilution through the use of a pre-chamber combustor.

In spark ignited engines, thermal efficiency is strongly influenced by the quality of the combustion process as initiated by the ignition system. Jet Ignition is a combustion concept that utilizes a small pre-chamber to produce reactive jets which distribute ignition energy throughout the main combustion chamber. This distributed ignition energy can be leveraged to induce ignition in traditionally difficult-to-ignite regimes, such as in highly dilute mixtures. Highly dilute jet ignition combustion has been proven to produce thermal efficiencies significantly higher than those of conventional spark ignition combustion. To fully exploit the efficiency potential of active jet ignition, multiple aspects of the engine architecture and peripheral systems must be adjusted. Efficiency sensitivities to compression ratio, boost system, and intake port design have been explored extensively.

The 2025 Corporate Average Fleet Economy (CAFE) fuel economy regulations are a significant challenge to the automotive industry. These regulations require dramatic increases in vehicle fleet fuel economy. This paper will identify and analyze a portfolio of technologies that have the potential to achieve the 2025 CAFE fuel economy targets, focusing on powertrain enhancements. The study uses a MAHLE Powertrain developed fleet modeling tool and a range of vehicle technologies and powertrain data taken from MAHLE's global research and development activities. Powertrain technologies considered include extreme engine downsizing, dilute combustion, friction reduction, hybridization, diesel and alternative fuels. The vehicle technologies analyzed include vehicle light weighting, reduced rolling resistance, advanced transmissions and improved aerodynamics.