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US diesel $4.049 per gallonWeek ending Aug 17, 2026 · EIA
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Detroit DD16

15.6 litre2008 to presentGHG17 (2017)

Detroit's heavy-haul engine, sharing architecture with the DD15 at greater displacement. Sold almost entirely into Western Star and severe-service Freightliners.

Output

500-600 hp

1850-2050 lb-ft peak torque

Fuel per mile

$0.686

at 5.9 mpg and $4.049 a gallon

Fuel a year

$82,353

over 120,000 miles

In-frame overhaul

$27k-$39k

rough, and shop rates move it

In the exhaust

DPF and SCR, one-box

The first greenhouse gas phase targets the whole vehicle rather than the engine, so this era is as much about aerodynamics, tyres and axle ratios as combustion. Downspeeding becomes standard: tall gears, low cruise revs.

Known issues

The DD15's aftertreatment items, plus the weight and thirst that come with the displacement.

Verdict

Right for oversize and sustained grades. There is no reason to put one under a dry van.