New Bosch technology makes diesel cars cleaner

22 July 2002: Bosch has developed a closed-loop lambda sensor control to a diesel engine for the first time. The system feeds back detailed information on exhaust gases to the engine management system, allowing for previously unattainable levels of injection and engine tuning, and further reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Bosch lambda-based control optimises exhaust gas quality through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation, charge-air pressure and start of injection. A broad-band lambda sensor with a wide working range measures the oxygen content in the exhaust gas and is able to send important information on the combustion processes in the engine to the ECU, which then alters injection and air-pressure parameters to maintain correct exhaust gas output.

Compared to standard diesel engine management, the new Bosch system permits a stricter adherence to low emission values. In engines running in full-load, the system also offers better smoke suppression than before. Several automotive manufacturers intend to equip their standard diesel engines with the new lambda-based control system.

In 1976, Bosch was the first to market the exhaust gas sensor for cars. This innovation made the controlled catalytic converter possible and contributed a dramatic reduction in emissions from petrol engines. In 1986, Bosch celebrated the delivery of the ten millionth lambda sensor and by 1993 this had risen to 50 million. By 2001 Bosch had made 250 million units.

July 2002