Development of Methanol Fuelled Two-Wheeler for Sustainable Mobility

Abstract

With environmental pollution norms becoming increasingly stringent, there is a need for alternate combustion techniques and alternate fuels to keep up with the changing trends. One of the viable solutions for India is the adaptation of methanol as a fuel for automotive sector. Methanol could be produced from stray carbon resources such as high ash coal, municipal solid waste (MSW) and low-value agricultural biomass, and it can be potentially a good substitute for imported petroleum-based fuels. Methanol has a higher Octane number and emits lower hydrocarbon and NOx. Engine noise and vibrations of methanol-fuelled engines are also relatively lesser than equivalent petrol engines. Further, better fuel properties of methanol lead to higher engine efficiency, which in turn lead to higher well-to-wheel efficiency vis-à-vis gasoline. This chapter covers challenges in developing the retrofitment kit for existing electronic fuel injection (EFI) two-wheelers with minimal structural changes for successful M85 adaptation. In a fuel injection system equipped engine, combustion is primarily governed by Electronic Control Unit (ECU) map, which controls the amount of fuel injected in the cylinder and also the spark timings based on various parameters like engine speed, manifold air pressure, throttle position, engine temperature, intake air temperature, acceleration, altitude etc. This chapter primarily deals with the methodology for theoretical and experimental investigations for ECU calibration, which can ensure flawless performance and on-road drivability of M85 fueled motorcycle.