Korean Researchers Push HCNG Engine to Euro VII

Cooperation between KOGAS, KGS (Korean Gas Safety), KIMM (Korea Institute of Machinery &

Materials) and Daewoo Bus has enabled scientists to develop an HCNG engine which is compliant with

Euro-6 European emission regulations. This engine, as reported by Business Korea, is compatible with

existing natural gas engines, making it possible to change natural gas buses into HCNG buses with the

new engine.

HCNG is hydrogen-enriched compressed natural gas (CNG); it emits less exhaust gases and has better

combustion performance than CNG, and is considered by many as a a stepping stone to hydrogen fuel as

a future energy source. Although significant work has been carried out over several years on HCNG

engines, the research team claims this is the first Euro-VI compliant engine.

High EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) technology has reportedly brought about improvements in

durability and fuel efficiency, controlling combustion temperature and oxygen concentration by

recirculating a portion of the engine’s exhaust gas back to the engine cylinders. The new engine emits 18

percent less carbon dioxide but has 8 percent higher fuel efficiency than a CNG engine with the same

output.

Furthermore, the emissions outcomes are so good, the research team has expressed confidence the

new technology will satisfy compliance requirements for Euro VII emission standards, which will take

effect from 2020.

Dr. Kim Chang-ki said, “We have developed a HCNG engine, which satisfies emission regulations after

the Euro 6, for the first time in the world. It is meaningful in that we have set a foundation to

commercialize HCNG buses. Once HCNG charging infrastructure is constructed, we expect to

commercialize them within three years.”

NGV Global affiliated association KANGV confirmed the development of the engine by Dr. Kim Chang-ki

and his research team at KIMM. Field testing of two buses is currently being conducted.

NGS INDIA