Chrysler Improves CNG Tanks With Human Lungs
Chrysler has developed a patent-pending technology that mimics human lungs in order to enhance its CNG tank capacities.
The next generation of fuel tanks powering Chrysler’s compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles are inspired by human lungs and address limitations in current CNG tank designs.
“Within the human lung are countless individual sacks called alveoli,” says Enrico Pisino, Chrysler Group’s Senior Manager-Innovation. “These sacks combine to expand the lung’s total air capacity. We are using this same approach to improve the packaging of CNG tanks.”
SEE ALSO: Ford F-150 Natural Gas Option Added for 2014
Though CNG has an advantage in terms of cost over standard gasoline, its energy density is less by volume causing CNG-powered vehicles to require larger fuel tanks in order to deliver comparable range to a standard gasoline-powered vehicle. Chrysler hopes its new CNG tank designs will be a no-compromise solution that helps conserve space.
The American automaker currently has the only factory-built CNG-powered pickup with its Ram 2500 CNG that can travel 255 miles on CNG and a total of 745 miles when equipped with an available 35-gallon reserve gas tank. Other automakers however are putting a focus on CNG technology with GM offering an upfit option in its HD trucks and is even adding a CNG variant to the Impala sedan.
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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