Weichai reveals new engine products in Weifang, Shandong province on Nov 20. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Shandong-based powertrain manufacturer Weichai established a new benchmark for the global engine industry by setting a record in thermal efficiency.

The company released the world's first commercial diesel engine with a base engine thermal efficiency of 52.28 percent and the world's first commercial natural gas engine with a base engine thermal efficiency of 54.16 percent in Weifang, Shandong province on Nov 20.

Improving thermal efficiency has been the common pursuit throughout the global diesel engine industry since diesel engines emerged 125 years ago. Weichai's diesel engine thermal efficiency broke 50.23 percent in 2020 and 51.09 percent in January this year, and has once again set a new global record at 52.28 percent, reaching the number one spot in the world three consecutive times.

At the same time, the thermal efficiency of natural gas engines broke 54.16 percent for the first time in the world and surpassed that of diesel engines for the first time, marking a milestone for the internal combustion engine industry.

The record thermal efficiency is of great significance to environmental protection and sustainable development, as a higher thermal efficiency represents lower fuel consumption. Compared with regular products, Wechai's new engine products can substantially reduce fuel consumption, reduce costs and cut carbon dioxide emissions, according to the company.

German testing and certification leader TUV SUD issued a test report to Weichai at the launch ceremony for its latest achievement.