EPA certifies 8.8-liter alt-fuel engine by Power Solutions International

PSI 8.8L
PSI 8.8L

Power Solutions International reports that the EPA has certified the company’s 8.8-liter propane and natural gas fueled engine for on-highway applications.

PSI, which designs, engineers and manufactures emissions-certified, alternative-fuel and conventional power systems, says the new 8.8-liter engine is a cost-competitive, easy-to-integrate option for medium-duty commercial truck and bus fleets. The system suits a wide range of on-highway applications, including vocational trucks, school and transit buses, delivery fleets, recreational vehicles, tow and utility trucks and garbage trucks.

“We recognize the need for our customers to have flexible power solutions that address emissions regulations,” says Gary Winemaster, chairman and CEO of PSI. “Our alternative-fuel engines are a cleaner and considerably less expensive solution when compared to diesel. With this engine, we offer on-highway OEMs a quality alternative that meets their performance, compliance and economic demands, while providing the flexibility to choose the best fueling strategy today and in the future.”

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The new 8.8-liter engine is designed to solve two key problems in today’s alternative fuel engine market: the limited range of available platforms, and the quality and performance shortcomings of current products, according to PSI. OEMs in primarily diesel-driven industries have sought alternatives, but have not found systems that meet their size and power range requirements. With diesel fuel costs remaining high and emission regulations creating compliance hurdles, PSI sees solid indicators of industry demand for alternative-fuel solutions. This newly certified engine will play a key role in opening up these new markets for PSI.

PSI’s 8.8-liter liquid-injected propane engine is designed for diesel-like power and performance, producing 270 hp at 2600 rpm and 565 lb-ft at 1500 rpm. The low-speed engine supports SAE 2 and SAE 3 transmission interfaces, which offer OEMs many more transmission options.

All PSI 8.8-liter engines come standard with advanced front accessory drives, including the following features: an 8-groove belt, an electronically controlled viscous fan clutch, an integrated pad-mounted alternator that supports up to 320 amps, and a pad-mounted AC compressor.

PSI developed strategic partnerships with Delphi, for advanced controls, and Ricardo, for testing, validation and certification of the engine.