Research on New Fuels to Unlock the Potential of Future Compression Ignition Engines

Saudi Aramco is establishing a vast R&D program in the field of fuel technology to promote the responsible use of petroleum in transport. In this context, Saudi Aramco has established a new fuel research center in collaboration with IFP Energies nouvelles. This center focuses on developing new cost-effective fuel/engine system solutions that consider CO2 emissions reduction on a life-cycle basis.
One of the first programs pursued through this joint R&D effort will aim at demonstrating, in collaboration with PSA Peugeot Citroën, the potential of fuels in the naphtha range, on a compression ignition engine equipped with the least necessary technology to comply with the most stringent pollutant emissions regulations, especially under World harmonized Light duty driving Test Cycle (WLTC) without an NOx after treatment system, while achieving attractive CO2 benefits. This program is motivated by the projected world energy demand for transport shift toward middle distillates (especially diesel and kerosene) as the result of a growing commercial transport sector.