But when Rudolf Diesel was a student, both types of engine were woefully inefficient, converting only around 10% of heat into useful work.

So let’s call this application of Rudolf Diesel’s principles what it is: the technical high point of combustion-ignition in passenger cars, the beginning of sunset.

Rudolf Diesel, a German mechanical engineer born 157 years ago today, patented an industrial engine in 1892 that functioned far more efficiently than steam engines.