Research

Ricardo invests extensively in engine technology research and development with the aim of developing cost effective solutions to the challenges of the future. The same tools and facilities that Ricardo uses for this work are also available to support client research objectives, either on a contract basis or in some cases, collaborative projects where client and Ricardo research objectives are aligned.

World-class engine research capabilities: 

• Access to the range of Ricardo single cylinder test engines based at the Sir Harry Ricardo Laboratories of Brighton University, covering an extremely wide range of engine sizes, applications and capacities
• Non-intrusive experimental methods including phase doppler anemometry (PDA) particle image velocimetry (PIV) and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) are used on optically accessed engines and fuel spray rigs
• The full range of engine CAE simulation and testing infrastructure of the Ricardo organization

Current research includes a particular focus on: 

• Fuel consumption improvement technologies
• Low cost Tier 4 final solutions for US applications
• Supercharging of heavy duty engines
• Exhaust energy recovery technologies
• Extreme engine downsizing technologies such as the Ricardo 2/4SIGHT concept
• Euro 7 and LEV 3 solutions
• Engines for range extended plug-in electric vehicles and hybrids
• Solutions to IMO Tier 3 for large marine engines