A Feasibility Analysis of a Simple Cycle Gas Turbine Engine for Automobiles

The feasibility of a simple-cycle gas turbine engine for automobiles is analyzed by means of comparison with Otto-cycle engines for automobiles. Applicable technology is reviewed with emphasis on centrifugal compressor technology, which has demonstrated pressure ratios of better than 10:1. The design point of a simple-cycle 150 hp automobile engine based on these components is presented, together with estimated torque and fuel-flow characteristics for the entire range of possible engine performance, derived from engine-cycle analysis programs.

The results of a vehicle performance computer program designed to evaluate candidates for this application include time/speed/distance performance estimates for maximum acceleration as well as fuel economy and emissions estimates for pertinent driving cycles. Summaries of manufacturing cost estimates are presented for several candidate gas turbine engines.

A speculative overall cost for both four and ten years of ownership is estimated based primarily on these fuel economy and manufacturing cost derivations.

It is concluded that the simple-cycle gas turbine engine studied is sufficiently attractive as a low-pollution automobile engine for the post-1975 decade to warrant full-scale demonstration as soon as possible.