PERKINS Technology - the consultancy arm of diesel engine experts Varity Perkins - has unveiled a prototype 3.0 V6 direct injection diesel aimed at executive and off-road vehicle manufacturers.

Revealed at the SAE Show in Detroit earlier this year, the engine has yet to go into production, but could be built in the UK if a major manufacturer expressed interest in using it in its model line-up. The engine has been specially developed with the executive, MPV and 4x4 markets in mind and draws upon Perkins Technology's vast experience in developing diesel powertrains in conjunction with most of the major vehicle manufacturers.

Rated at 170bhp, the engine uses high speed direct injection (HSDI) technology to maximise power output while reducing noise, vibration and harshness.