Research Project - Replacing diesel engines... PLEASE HELP

[GBeach]

Hello all,
I am a Marketing Major at the University of New Hampshire, and am working on a market research paper. Basically, I am trying to figure out if there is any demand in the trucking market for a new non-diesel engine. There are companies on the rise who are investing in and researching gas turbine engines. Many of these engines can match the power output of today's diesel engines and are more efficient, not to mention better for the environment. There are few moving parts, which means less service, and the engines can run on almost any combustible liquid. My question to all of you is:

If replacing the standard diesel engines with a more advanced turbine engine was a viable, inexpensive operation, would you, as truckers/owners, want a more efficient engine, that in the long run will save money on fuel and service, all while helping the environment?

Please feel free to respond with any comments, questions, or any information that you may have on this new technology. Any help here is greatly appreciated.

Thank You,
GBeach

[Comftblynumb]

Would absolutly love to if it would pay for itself in the long run. The upfront cost is a big consideration that would not be able to exceed the value of the truck. Driving a truck is the way we earn a living so if the change wouldn't mean hungry kids at home and pay for itself in cost savings to boot, I don't see why anyone wouldn't be on board.

Good luck.

[baiano]

Have to agree with Taz... if it is more efficient all the way around I don't see why not.

[mechanix]

Efficiency and costs are only part of the issue though.
I have not looked into turbine options, but may of the same problems creep up in any alternative.
Weight ratios, holding any of the initial value, servicability and reliability are top issues.
With those issues being equal to current productions, then yes it would be a very viable option. But as with any new technology,it is never cheap. Improvements,enhancements and untested reliabilty cost money, that most people and companies are not willing to spend.

[ranger309]

Gas turbines didn't work out for Chrysler too well, but that was before OBD computers, for one. My first thought is that it will be too cost prohibitive for many companies and owner operators at the present time. The variables involved in your quest are many and economy is going to be a big factor in any decisions made in regards to a transition from diesel to gas turbine power for heavy duty trucks.