Cold Start Automotive Research Efforts at the University of Alaska Anchorage

Cold start automobile tests were conducted at the university of Alaska Anchorage to determine the effectiveness of engine block preheaters in reducing emissions of carbon monoxide. The tests were conducted under no-load idle conditions. Sixteen vehicles were tested.

The test results indicate that significant reductions in CO emissions can be achieved during cold start when engine block preheaters are used.

Additional tests were conducted to determine if the use of engine block preheaters under cold temperature starting conditions would result in fuel savings. The test results indicate that fuel consumption is not influenced by the use engine block preheaters.