This study evaluates the impacts of the gasoline compression ignition (GCI) engine on heavy duty long-haul trucks in both the Chinese and US markets. The study examines various aspects such as vehicle performance requirements, fuel consumption, emissions, and ownerships costs, and how they influence the implementation and impact of new technologies in these markets. By considering a wide variety of drive cycles, including standard regulatory cycles and real-world cycles, the study aims to identify the impact of varying degrees of powertrain electrification using diesel and GCI engines on fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, this paper explores the viability of powertrain electrification in long-haul trucks by analyzing factors such as levelized cost of driving (LCOD), manufacturing costs, and energy costs. These considerations play a crucial role in determining the economic feasibility and attractiveness of electrification technologies in various driving scenarios and market contexts.
The analysis results showed that the implementation of GCI engines in heavy-duty long-haul trucks requires consideration of market conditions, emissions regulations, and fuel prices. The GCI engines achieve remarkable NOx emissions reductions, exceeding 75% in the U.S. and 90% in China, making them a compelling choice for markets prioritizing stringent emissions standards. The LCOD analysis reveals that GCI engines remain competitive, with cost performance strongly influenced by diesel, urea, and gasoline prices. Moreover, GCI engines, when paired with hybrid architectures, deliver notable energy cost advantages, underscoring their potential to outperform conventional powertrains in the long term. Overall, the GCI engine emerges as a highly promising solution for heavy-duty long-haul trucks, offering substantial benefits in emissions, fuel economy, and operational costs. Its integration into electrified powertrain systems further enhances its appeal, solidifying its position as a forward-looking technology poised to meet the demands of evolving market and regulatory landscapes.