Renault and Delphi Automotive Systems Develop New Common Rail Diesel Injection System

    TROY, Mich., Feb. 13 Renault will increase its diesel
engine portfolio by the summer of 2001, adding a new 1.5 dCi engine that
employs a new common rail diesel injection system developed in partnership
with Delphi Automotive Systems .  This new engine will result in
major improvements in performance and reduced environmental impact, with power
outputs ranging from 65 to 80bhp, and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
    (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20010213/DETU010
             http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20001019/DELPHIAS )
    The diesel market continues to grow in Europe and greater emphasis is
placed on the environment and meeting government regulations worldwide.  The
launch of Renault's new common rail diesel injection system will help Renault
strengthen its engine portfolio and further position Delphi as a leader in the
diesel engine management systems market.
    In 2000, Renault introduced the 2.2 dCi 16-valve engine for the Espace,
and made major improvements for the 120bhp 1.9 dCi engine for the Laguna II.
Renault is continuing development of its turbodiesel engine range and is
completing work on the 1.5 dCi.  With a capacity of 1,461cc, it is intended to
span the power output range from 65 to 80bhp, and will be equipped with
Delphi's Multec DCR 1400 common rail diesel system.
    "We are proud to be partnering with Renault to develop advanced diesel
systems," said Guy C. Hachey, president of Delphi's Energy & Chassis division.
"Today, Delphi's complete gas and diesel engine management capabilities
positions us to meet and exceed our customers needs for performance, fuel
economy and reduced emissions.  When we acquired the diesel fuel injection
business in 2000, it enabled us to expand our technological expertise and
enter into a new arena of engine management."

    Advanced diesel injection technology
    While the unusual spherical shape of its rail is especially well adapted
to small and compact engines, the advantage of this system derives from its
injectors and advanced control of the injection process.  The injectors have a
balanced valve, independent of pressure.  This allows the use of an ultra
compact, fast acting solenoid that provides a great precision of the injection
quantity and timing.  At the same time, a self-regulating Accelerometer Pilot
Control (APC) function enables to monitor each injector with an extreme
accuracy to ensure an optimized combustion throughout the engine life.

    Improved ease of driving, and lower CO2 emissions
    These advanced techniques, which are new when compared with common rail
systems currently on the market, also result in improvement in diesel engine
noise levels.  Ease of driving will likewise be improved with the torque
curves optimized for passing response.  Two versions of the 1.5 dCi engine are
under development:  65bhp/160Nm and 80bhp/185Nm.
    This new engine also contributes to Renault's environmentally responsible
policy of offering cars with low CO2 emissions.  In a Clio-type vehicle, it
allows fuel consumption under 4.5 litres/100km to be achieved in the mixed
European cycle, thus reducing CO2 emissions.
    The development of this 1.5 dCi engine in its 65bhp and 80bhp versions
will be completed this spring.  Its introduction into the Renault product line
is scheduled for summer 2001.
    For more information about Delphi Automotive Systems, visit Delphi's
Virtual Press Room at http://www.delphiauto.com/vpr .