Two new members of the Model Fuels Consortium (MFC), Petrobras and Saudi Aramco, were unveiled yesterday (22nd October). The MFC, launched in 2005 by Reaction Design, directs the expertise and resources of fuel producers, engine manufacturers and automakers toward a shared agenda: to develop the model fuels that are essential to accurate simulation of the complex chemical processes that drive combustion. The MFC's stakeholders face regulatory and economic pressures to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards and demanding fuel efficiency requirements – circumstances that have also given rise to developmental fuels and new engine technologies they must master.

“The addition of Petrobras and Saudi Aramco, two of the largest energy producers in the world, brings great insight and support to our consortium” said Bernie Rosenthal , CEO of Reaction Design. “I commend these companies for their commitment to the advancement of knowledge and development of vital tools for clean fuel production and combustion.”

Through their membership, the companies will support the consortium's charter to develop, validate and apply advanced simulation methods that can improve engine and fuel design resulting in increased fuel efficiencies and reduced emissions. Petrobras and Saudi Aramco join current members, Chevron and Conoco-Phillips, giving the consortium strong representation from forward-thinking clean energy providers. Additional members of the MFC include Cummins Engine Company, Dow Chemical Company, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Honda, L'Institut Français du Pétrole, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, PSA Peugeot Citroën, and Toyota .

“Joining the Model Fuels Consortium will enable Petrobras to work closely with the world's leading engine producers to design and produce the most efficient and environmentally friendly fuels” said Alipio Ferreira Pinto, Jr., Downstream R&D General Manager.

“Saudi Aramco is committed to developing energy products to support clean combustion technology and the work of the MFC provides valuable tools and scientific understanding for us to achieve our goals” said Ahmar Ghauri, Internal Combustion Engine Scientist. “Saudi Aramco has observed the significant achievements of the MFC since its inception and we look forward to collaborating with Reaction Design and our fellow members to achieve the objectives of the MFC.”