NEC debut for new 6LXDT
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• The long-awaited 231kW (310hp) version of Gardner's 12.7-litre 6LXDT diesel engine will make its UK debut in October at the NEC Motor Show in Birmingham.
Few details are available on the uprated power unit, but Gardner has confirmed that it will be based on the existing six-cylinder 216kW (290hp) turbocharged 6LXDT engine, with improved turbocharging and revised cooling and lubricataion to handle the increased power output.
It will not be charge-cooled, but Gardner says that any moves to take the 6LXDT above 231kW (to replace the ill-fated 15.5-litre 6LYT) will necessitate the use of chargecooling.
Maximum torque on the 231kW 6LXDT will be around 1,360Nm (1,000Ibft) but the Patricroft engine manufacturer says that the increased power will not be achieved by increasing rotational speeds.
Gardner aims to increase its share of the UK truck and bus market, which has been severely eroded by Cummins, and the launch of the most powerful 6LXDT engine to date would undoubtedly increase its appeal to HGV operators.
The 6uarr range is currently available from 172216kW (230-290hp), and is offered by Foden, ERF and Seddon Atkinson as an option in their heavy truck models.