This paper presents the conversion of a Ford Zetec Rocam engine to use CNG, the modifications in the internal parts of the engine and its installation in the New Ford Fiesta in production in Brazil.
For homologation and validation of the vehicle and engine running with CNG Ford uses two different approaches. Ford validates de durability of the engine only and the responsible for the CNG system installed in the vehicle is the converter. The CNG vehicle is a OEM product that requires a full homologation and validation.
Considering the Rocam engines produced in Brazil, there are some possibilities for the base engine of the CNG Bi fuel vehicle. The ethanol Rocam engine with a compression ratio (CR) of 12,2:1, the gasohol Rocam engine installed with a CR of 9,5:1 and a prototype Rocam engine with intermediate compression ratio between ethanol and gasohol of 10,8:1.
The objective of this study is to propose possibilities to launch a vehicle using CNG in the growing Brazilian market considering with its pros and cons.