Engines of Future
The next level emission norms are due for implementation in October 2020. Diesel engine manufacturers are preparing for the new emission regulation regime in India with the upgradation of design and components. The new changes will comprise more electronics, new after-treatment systems and technologies such as SCR. The market for diesel engines is expected to grow at a rate of six per cent in the coming years. The growth rate is expected to dip in automotive industry due to more demand coming from electric vehicles. However, in off-road segment, the demand will grow with the market growth of off-highway equipment. The new emission regulations will further stimulate the growth trend for diesel engines in off-highway market. Electric power has taken a major role in the automotive industry with many automotive OEMs introducing electric vehicles. Of late, the construction equipment segment is also seeing some glimpse of the trend with a leading OEM deciding to phase out diesel power from its compact equipment range by introducing electric power. However, in India, this will take time to take off since it is still at its fledgling stage in the global market. So, the coming years will be of growth and prosperity for diesel engines in India. The Special Focus section elaborates on the emerging market trends in diesel engines for off-highway equipment and the major technologies and solutions to meet the next level emission norms. Digitalisation is fast picking up in equipment segment and it has changes the overall performance levels of various machines. Applications of digital features in hydraulics have made the hydraulic systems smarter and more efficient. A smart system with smart components is capable of maximising its life cycle. As systems have become more complex, end-users have invested a lot into their plant and machinery. With smarter equipment, machine operators can better monitor when a component needs service. The Technology article on Smart Hydraulics brings in the advantages of smart hydraulics.