Dodge has announced that its 2010 6.7L Cummins diesel-equipped commercial chassis-cab trucks will feature a urea scavenging system to reduce NOx levels in the exhaust.
To meet the tougher 2010 Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions regulations, manufacturers are turning to alternative methods to meet the requirements. GM, Ford and Dodge are all turning to the urea scavenging method, though Dodge's 2500 and 3500 consumer pickups with the 6.7L Cummins will not get the urea system. Those engines are already 2010 compliant, thanks to a unique NOx absorber in its exhaust system.
Urea, or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) scavenging systems will require a tank of fluid that must be refilled frequently. The DEF is injected into the exhaust stream downstream of the diesel particulate filter. The DEF breaks down into ammonia and mixes with the exhaust gases. A selective catalytic converter converts the ammonia/NOx mixture into nitrogen and water before it leaves the tailpipe.
Dodge commercial chassis cab trucks will have an 8-gallon DEF tank with a filler neck on the same side of the truck as the fuel filler neck. Dodge claims the 8 gallons will provide a 4,000 mile range. According to a Pickuptrucks.com report, DEF will cost about $2.75 per gallon and will be available in gallon jugs and through dispensing units at fuel stations.