ExxonMobil, Toyota Researchers Receive SAE Award for Diesel Emissions Research

FAIRFAX, Va.--Oct. 2, 20046, 2004--ExxonMobil Research & Engineering Company (EMRE) announced today that together with Toyota Central Research and Development Laboratories, Inc., their researchers were awarded the prestigious Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Harry Horning Memorial Award at a ceremony in Tampa, Fla. The award was given for the extensive work they have done to better understand how the properties of diesel fuel affect vehicle emissions into the atmosphere.

This year's award went to Walter Weissman and John T. Farrell of ExxonMobil who researched and co-authored with Toyota researchers Kiyomi Nakakita, Hitoshi Ban, Semon Takasu, Yoshihiro Hotta, and Kazuhisa Inagaki a technical paper, "Effect of Hydrocarbon Molecular Structure in Diesel Fuel on In-Cylinder Soot Formation and Exhaust Emissions." The paper, which focuses on fuel molecular structure and vehicle engine technology, contributes to a better understanding of the combustion aspects of engines and fuel system dynamics. According to the SAE, this paper demonstrates the value of what can be achieved when leading scientists from both automotive and oil corporations pool their knowledge and expertise.

"This award confirms ExxonMobil's continuous focus and long term commitment to research and technology as a way to take on the world's toughest energy challenges," said Alan J. Kelly, General Manager, Corporate Planning, Exxon Mobil Corporation. "The work completed in this study is just one of many elements that contribute to our understanding of the engine and fuel system. This knowledge is basic to creating cleaner fuels and cleaner engine systems."

The award, established in 1938 to preserve the memory of SAE's 1925 President Harry L. Horning, annually recognizes the authors of the best paper relating to the better mutual adaptation of fuels and internal combustion engines presented at a meeting of the Society.

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