ABSTRACT
Emissions legislation, fuel economy, and vehicle performance have continued to be the major driving forces behind the design and choice of automotive engines and transmissions in Europe. Western Europe has the largest number of cars in use currently, ahead of North America and Asia, and has the third largest number of trucks and buses in the world, as indicated by the global vehicle population data. Vehicle manufacturers demand great commitment and involvement from suppliers, so suppliers are required to invest in high-quality staff, new production processes, and new technologies in order to compete. European vehicles are becoming more complex and sophisticated as a result of stricter safety and environmental laws and of increasing demands from customers. Diesel engines are being used in an ever greater number of passenger cars in Europe, and the number of heavy-duty diesel-powered trucks sector is also growing, as more goods are transported by road.
