"Extensive testing of the Series 60 has shown our particulate filter regeneration process is more effective than originally anticipated," said David Siler, director of marketing for Detroit Diesel. "The fact that the filters are staying clean, combined with some advancements in the regeneration software, allow us to enhance the regeneration process to improve the fuel efficiency for the engines."

These improvements, according to Detroit Diesel engineers, will increase fuel economy by up to 2.5 percent.

"Two and a-half percent is a significant fuel economy improvement, coming at a point in time when our customers can really use it," according to Siler. "Nothing could make us happier than being able to report this right now when fuel prices are hitting all-time highs."

In addition to regeneration cycle modifications, Detroit Diesel also announced nocharge features that can significantly enhance the vehicle’s shifting and cruise control operations.

"Progressive shifting, which limits engine speed during upshifting, can add additional savings in fuel consumption," Siler said. "Optimizing engine speed while in cruise control can further enhance savings. Both of these features will be made available to customers at no charge at the same time they come in for the regeneration programming - making the trip to an authorized Detroit Diesel facility well worthwhile."

Fleet owners and owner-operators can take advantage of the modifications and associated fuel economy benefits by scheduling a visit to any Detroit Diesel dealer or distributor to have their EPA ‘07 Series 60 engine re-flashed at no cost beginning July 1, 2008. Any EPA ’07 Series 60 produced after July 1, 2008, will automatically be programmed for the modified regeneration cycle.

"Our engineers are continuously developing new ways to improve fuel economy for our customers," Siler said. "We aren’t satisfied with simply meeting industry standards - we want to exceed them. We didn’t earn our best-in-class fuel economy reputation by standing still. Toward that end, we will be announcing additional fuel economy enhancements and options for the Detroit Diesel engine line-up in the coming months."

To find out more about Detroit Diesel, visit www.detroitdiesel.com.

Detroit Diesel Corporation is a leading manufacturer of on-highway diesel engines for the commercial truck market. Headquartered in Redford, Mich., Detroit Diesel Corporation is engaged in the design, manufacture, sale and service of these products, in addition to supporting alternative and hybrid engine strategies for the commercial truck marketplace. Detroit Diesel Corporation is a Daimler company.