Pierce Manufacturing announced that testing for its new 2010 EPA-compliant engines is on schedule. In recently completed validations on Pierce fire apparatus, the Detroit Diesel DD13 engine has demonstrated up to 5% better fuel economy than previous engines, while delivering up to 500 hp and 1,650 foot-pounds of torque on-demand, according to the company.

The DD13 uses BlueTec selective catalytic reduction technology that, according to the company’s test data, reduces nitrogen oxide engine emissions to near zero.

Pierce and Detroit Diesel have developed proprietary emissions components that they say will have virtually no impact to wheelbase, cab and compartment space.