Navy Phase I SBIR Success | Exergi Predictive
βœ… Phase I Complete - August 5, 2025
πŸ“… Phase I Option Extension: Sep 2025-Jan 2026
πŸ“… Phase II Selection: Tenatively to begin Feb 2026

Project Overview

Exergi Predictive has successfully completed its Navy Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project focused on the compatibility of Tier 4 diesel engines with JP-8 fuel. Completed on August 5, 2025, this critical project addressed a significant operational challenge for Navy expeditionary forces.

The Challenge: Navy Expeditionary Forces must reliably operate acquired vehicles and equipment on JP-8, a standardized fuel mandated by the U.S. Department of Defense. Due to compatibility issues, the Navy is currently restricted to using only Tier 3-certified engines (manufactured before 2010), limiting access to modern, more efficient diesel equipment.

Phase I Achievements

  • Developed Modern Diesel Engine Conversion (MDEC) technology
  • Successfully demonstrated equal performance to stock configuration
  • Completed dynamometer testing showing improved performance at lower speeds
  • Established conversion methodology for Cummins B-series engines
  • Validated fuel system compatibility and durability

MDEC Technology Innovation

The MDEC solution replaces the Tier 4 aftertreatment train (DOC, DPF, and SCR) with a conventional muffler and configurable exhaust ducting, while providing a newly programmed ECU that optimizes the remaining engine components for JP-8 operation.

Project Details

Contract Information

Contract Number: N6833525C0186
Topic Number: N243-105
Project Title: Compatibility of Tier 4 Diesel Engines with JP-8
Completion Date: August 5, 2025

Technical Accomplishments

The Phase I project successfully demonstrated that Exergi Predictive's MDEC technology can enable modern Tier 4 diesel engines to operate reliably on JP-8 fuel. Initial testing on a Cummins B-series pickup truck showed that the MDEC conversion not only matched the performance of the stock configuration but delivered superior performance at lower speeds.

Performance Results: Dynamometer testing confirmed that MDEC-converted engines operating on JP-8 fuel achieve equal or superior performance compared to their original Tier 4 configuration, while eliminating compatibility issues that previously restricted Navy operations.

Project Timeline

Phase I Base Complete (August 5, 2025)

Successfully demonstrated MDEC technology with Cummins B-series engine conversion and performance validation.

Phase I Option Extension (Sep 2025 - Feb 2026)

Extended development period to refine technology and prepare for potential Phase II implementation.

Phase II Base (Feb 2026 - Jan 2027)

Phase II initiation to further develop Exergi's MDEC concept and refine its engineering capabilities for the conversion of a wide range of Navy-relevant equipment.

Strategic Impact

Mission Critical: This technology breakthrough eliminates a longstanding barrier that has prevented the Navy from accessing modern, efficient diesel equipment while maintaining fuel standardization requirements.

Military Benefits

  • Access to modern Tier 4 diesel equipment
  • Improved fuel efficiency and performance
  • Reduced maintenance and operational costs
  • Enhanced mission readiness and capability
  • Standardized fuel logistics across platforms

Technology Advantages

  • Proven performance on JP-8 fuel
  • Reliable operation in demanding environments
  • Scalable conversion methodology
  • Cost-effective implementation
  • Broad applicability across engine types

About Exergi Predictive

Exergi Predictive is a leading innovator in diesel conversion technology, energy management and predictive modeling for military and commercial applications. Our physics-guided AI solutions provide mission-critical energy prediction, optimization capabilities, and diesel calibration metrics for ground, marine, and aerial vehicles.

Contact: Dr. Will Northrop, CEO
Email: will@exergipredictive.com
Phone: +1-734-239-2688