Westport unveils its ESI natural gas system

Westport Innovations of Canada unveiled its newest technology, the first generation of enhanced spark-ignited (ESI) natural gas system.

Westport’s new approach to natural gas combustion technology is designed to provide vehicle and engine original manufacturers (OEMs) with a “downsized” natural gas solution that is cost competitive while providing similar levels of power, torque, and fuel economy to a larger diesel engine.

Using 100% dedicated natural gas as fuel, Westport’s new technology optimizes the combustion and thermal efficiencies of the engine by taking advantages of the positive properties of natural gas, the company said in a statement.

Developed to meet the highest level of OEM quality standards, Westport’s new combustion system and components have been undergoing testing and offer ready integration into OEM applications globally. Its durability and reliability levels are expected to meet OEM’s extensive engine development program, it added.

The Westport™ ESI combustion system is targeted at sub 9L engines for Class 6 and 7 trucks applications and is also adaptable for sub 2L applications for use in automotive and non-automotive applications.

“As gasoline and diesel engines progress, it is critical that OEMs offer natural gas engines that retain their expected performance while providing the environmental and economic benefits of natural gas,” said Jack Keaton, Westport VP of Global Spark Ignited Direct Injection. “Westport is taking its technology leadership to the next level by introducing a long term technology solution that allows improvements in engine performance and fuel economy, thus offering highly attractive operating costs and low emissions profile. As the ESI technology continues to be developed, Westport will incorporate competitive performance upgrades to support the longevity of this system.”

Press Release, September 23, 2014; Image: Westport