proven technology
needs and criteria of a B + heavy duty engine market
fuel economy
cost versus benefit prediction
durability
integration possibilities in industry fabrication standards
reduced emissions
The heavy-duty engine market is extremely sensitive to fuel economy and maintenance. In the case of class 7 and 8 trucks for example (a $10B+ engine market in the US alone), the fuel cost is approximately 35% of the total operating costs, and fleets operate under very low profit margins (1-1.5%).