GLG News by Nanotechnology Material Experts (North America)

California seeks to force even the smallest truck fleets to invest in expensive upgrades to reduce diesel emissions.  These costs will be passed on as higher freight charges and ultimately as more expensive consumer goods.  Some fleets may not be able to bear the financial burden of the up-front...

Environmental legislation requires an economic impact analysis to ensure continued viability of commerce.   California's Clean Truck Program for port operations has withstood such challenges but is now faced with litigation claiming it unlawfully regulates the trucking industry.

Starting in 2010 precious metal catalysts will be required on off-road diesel engines in the US.  This incremental demand, coupled with a rebound in automotive production, may stretch supplies thin again as seen in 2007.  With regulatory impact increasing demand through 2015 worldwide the...

Diesels are ~25% more fuel efficient vs. gas but cost more to build.  Diesel fuel prices above unleaded in the US have dampened hopes for greater diesel share as mpg advantages are diluted.  Government incentives to help offset sticker price penalties for diesel may help future prospects as...

The EPA and individual states have offered some subsidies to retrofit older diesel engines with emission reducing technologies.  Newer engines [2007 - 2010 models] are factory equipped with advanced emission control systems but the majority of the existing US fleet still has older, dirtier engines....

2010 EPA NOx regulations are leading most OEMs to design in Urea-based SCR catalysts.  Truckers will need to refill the Urea tank periodically and need widespread availability of the chemical solution at most truck stops and fuel depots.  While readily available, the intermodal distribution...

Key automotive technologies are measured by two primary metrics:  performance and long term durability. Automotive components and systems are exposed to extreme conditions on a daily basis and OEMs must accurately simulate these in testing if they are to bring new technologies to market in a timely...

Automotive production declines have alleviated the supply deficit for Platinum since 2007 as consumption for catalytic converters has fallen. Future production rebound and pending emissions regulations will increase demand at or above 2007 levels.

California has the most stringent requirements in the world for retrofitting or re-powering older diesel engines with advanced emission controls. As written the cost for compliance can exceed $10K per engine in many cases. Fleet owners and operators are faced with tough choices as they near compliance...

Both Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors have formed joint ventures with battery producers in Japan to produce batteries for electric vehicles.  This follows the example of the well-established Toyota-Panasonic JV that already produces batteries for hybrid electric vehicles like the Toyota Prius. ...