ACT Research reported this week in its newest North American Commercial Vehicle On-Highway Engine Outlook report, published with Rhein Associates, that while 10-liter engines and larger are projected to account for more than 85 percent of the Class 8 production between 2020 and 2024, the trend toward smaller displacement engines (from 16-L to 15-L, and 13-L to 11-L) is expected to continue.
“Helped by strong tractor demand, engines over 14-liter constitute the largest market segment in 2019, with 49 percent share of the over 10-liter engine market,” says Tom Rhein, president, Rhein Associates.
ACT Research President and Senior Analyst Kenny Vieth adds, “Diesel power is under attack long-term for use in on-highway commercial vehicles. Alternative power is being developed, tested, and refined, even as diesel engines are transitioning to become more fuel efficient and clean. Looking forward, emissions and other environmental regulations will be drivers of alternative fuel adoption, which is why the Engine Outlook includes a section on the commercial vehicle regulatory environment.”
He continues, “While total cost of ownership calculations will ultimately determine the market for alternatively powered vehicles, it is important for decision makers to understand upfront activities, like Department of Energy spending on research into advanced vehicle technologies, repercussions for violations of the Clean Air Act, and notices and hearings for proposed regulations, like those designed to accelerate the use of zero-emission vehicles.”
This week’s Outlook report also highlights power-source activity for commercial vehicle GVWs 5-8, including five-year forecasts of engines volumes and product trends. The report ties to the detailed North American commercial vehicle forecasts published monthly by ACT Research. The companies say the report benefits businesses and manufacturers in the commercial vehicle engine production supply chain, and any company following the investment value of engine OEMs and their suppliers.
