Development of a Low-Emission, Dedicated Ethanol-Fuel Vehicle with Cold-Start Distillation System

This paper discusses the design and strategy for conversion of a vehicle to dedicated E85 (85% ethanol, 15% indolene clear) operation for participation in the 1998 Ethanol Vehicle Challenge by the University of California, Riverside. The primary focus of the design consists of:

• Development of a -7°C cold starting system utilizing a distillation process.
• Development of a close-coupled catalyst and secondary air injection system to decrease FTP cold start emissions.

This paper begins with a theoretical description and design of a novel distillation system that can provide gasoline- enriched fuel for starting in cold weather. This is followed by a description of modifications to the engine, emission control system, and other vehicle components. Modifications included engine changes to increase thermal efficiency, to improve handling, and to reduce friction. Suspension modifications were made to improve handling. The vehicle is a 1997 Chevrolet Malibu with a 3.1 liter 60°V-6 with a four speed automatic transmission.