Electronic Throttle Control as an Emission Reduction Device

It has long been believed that closer control of air fuel ratio during transients was achievable if the direct link between accelerator pedal and throttle was removed and replaced by a throttle controlled electronically. This paper charts the progress of a collaborative research program tasked with assessing the emission reduction potential of a vehicle fitted with an electronic throttle attempting real transients. The report reveals details of early feed forward fuel strategies and concludes with different catalyst loading emission comparisons from specific transient tests and complete FTP 75 drive cycles.