Detroit Diesel Announced Plans For 2007 Certification

DETROIT, Dec. 15, 2003 -- Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) announced today the plan for certification of its 2007 Series 50 urban bus engines. After investigating several possible technical solutions for 2007, DDC is now focused on the two with the most promise, Selective Catalytic Reduction, and refined EGR. A final decision as to which solution will be applied to the 2007 Series 50 will be made in 2004.

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) uses a liquid urea/water mixture injected into the exhaust stream. The water evaporates and the remaining ammonia sets off a chemical reaction eliminating NOx and leaving only nitrogen and water in the exhaust. SCR is the technical solution that will be used in Europe beginning in 2005.

Refined EGR flow is the other solution under evaluation. This approach uses the same technology as existing Detroit Diesel and Mercedes-Benz engines.

Both solutions will use a highly efficient particulate filter to further reduce overall emission levels and maintain excellent fuel economy.

According to Mark Summers, Senior Manager, NAFTA Bus and Coach Sales, "DDC is committed to providing the transit bus market with the best technological solution to meet the 2007 emissions requirement. At the same time we will provide the best value to our customers in terms of performance, fuel economy, and lowest cost of operation. Detroit Diesel has been the leader in the transit industry for more than 50 years. As part of DaimlerChrysler, our shared technology will ensure that we maintain our leadership role."

Detroit Diesel Corporation, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, is engaged in the design, manufacture, sale and service of heavy-duty diesel and alternative fuel engines, automotive diesel engines and engine-related products. The company offers a complete line of engines from 22 to 13,000 horsepower for the on-highway, off-road and automotive markets and is a QS- 9000 certified company. Detroit Diesel services these markets directly and through a worldwide network of more than 2,700 authorized distributor and dealer locations. Detroit Diesel is a subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler AG, the world's leading manufacturer of heavy-duty diesel truck engines. Within DaimlerChrysler AG, DDC is part of the NAFTA Truck Business Unit.

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/239425.html