Does anyone else see the importance of diesel engines in the coming years?

Diesels are huge in Europe where they are valued for their efficiency even in small cars. We may start seeing them used in small cars in the US as new electronic controls and emission systems allow them to meet EPA standards. To really blow your mind on the future possibilities of a new engine design check out the OPOC engine. Generac signed a deal to develop a generator and Navistar signed a deal to develop a diesel powered truck using this design.

http://ecomotors.com/

http://www.thegatesnotes.com/Topics/Energy/~/media...

They've always been popular in Europe as they have ridiculous fuel taxation. And diesels have traditionally gotten better fuel economy. But these days with direct injected turbo gas engines becoming more prevalent the diesel's fuel economy edge is diminishing. Case in point, the BMW 335i and the BMW 335d. The gas engine gets almost the same mileage as the diesel as you can see here

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&...

same deal with the MB 350 as you can see here

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/Find.do?action=sbs&...

Diesels are still quite important for cargo transportation, industrial use, and agriculture, as they have always been. But no offense, but if you're just now finding out about diesel cars, then you've missed the boat by a few decades, diesel cars have been around for a long time.