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Detroit Diesel Congratulates West Virginia University

11 September 2000

Detroit Diesel Congratulates West Virginia University In Winning 'FutureTruck' Competition

    DETROIT, Sept. 8 Detroit Diesel Corporation
(DDC) is pleased to recognize the accomplishments of West Virginia University
in winning the FutureTruck competition.  FutureTruck is a four-year
competition that challenges student engineers to re-engineer full-size sport
utility vehicles (SUVs) to meet the needs of the future -- producing
environmentally friendly, efficient transportation that maintains performance,
utility, and affordability.  To tackle this challenge, General Motors
Corporation (GM), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and others teamed up
with more than 200 of the best and brightest engineering students from 15 U.S.
and Canadian universities.
    The teams modified model-year 2000 Chevrolet Suburbans, using cutting-edge
technologies, such as fuel cells and other advanced propulsion systems, space-
age materials, and alternative fuels like biodiesel and ethanol (E-85).  The
2000 competition was hosted by the General Motors Desert Proving Grounds in
Mesa, Arizona, from June 8-15, 2000.  The overall winner was West Virginia's
hybrid electric Suburban, utilizing a DDC automotive diesel engine as the
prime power source.
    Vehicles underwent extensive testing in more than 10 technical events.
The overall winner was based on the number of points accumulated in events
such as Greenhouse Gas Impact, Emissions, Handling, Performance, and various
Design Events.  West Virginia University also placed first in Lowest
Greenhouse Gas Emissions.