The 2005 Ricardo diesel report, published this week, predicts a significant rise in U.S. light-duty diesel market penetration over the coming decade. Sales in the light-duty vehicle segment (up to 8,500 pounds GVW) are projected to grow from 43,000 units in 2004, to more than one million units annually by 2012, rising to 1.5 million by 2015.
Elsewhere in the world, light-duty diesel sales also continue to gain momentum, according to Ricardo, with 2004 posting the largest volume increase for a decade. In Western Europe, diesel car sales in 2004 continued to expand in all of the major national markets, with overall penetration reaching a record level of over 48% and with no immediate sign of a slow down. The sales ratio of diesel to gasoline vehicles for the larger manufacturers likewise continues to grow, led by Volkswagen, which now reports over 60% of its car sales as diesels.
The original Ricardo report was developed to provide insights into future trends for the diesel markets of Western Europe. The new 2005 U.S. market overview is one of two supplements to the Western Europe report. The other supplement covers the markets of Central and Eastern Europe.
The 2005 Ricardo diesel report can be purchased either directly from Ricardo Information Services at +44 (0) 1273 794230 or online at www.ricardo.com/ricardostore.
Ricardo has been a vehicle system and powertrain technology provider for automotive manufacturers, heavy-duty manufacturers and tier one suppliers since 1915. According to the company, the research team preparing the report incorporated an in-depth analysis of current market trends together with an assessment of future consumer tastes, legislative fuel quality and emissions standards and the probable commercial implementation of new and emerging technologies.
