Abstract: The invention relates to a method for heating a catalytic converter which is arranged in the exhaust-gas path of an internal combustion engine with direct injection and spark ignition. In the method, a first fuel injection takes place in the intake stroke (E), whereas a second fuel injection begins in the combustion stroke after top dead center and prior to the spark ignition of the air/fuel mix. It is preferable for the second fuel injection to continue beyond the ignition instant until the pressure in the combustion chamber reaches the fuel injection pressure.

Abstract: A control strategy for a DISI engine fitted with a catalytic converter, for reducing the light off time of the catalyst during cold starts, which comprises setting the ignition timing for each engine cylinder and injecting at least a proportion of the fuel, the timing of the injection in relation to the ignition timing being varied as a function of an engine operating condition.

Abstract: An emission control system for an engine is disclosed in which an exhaust gas cooler is positioned upstream from a hydrocarbon trap in order to prevent premature desorbtion of hydrocarbons from the hydrocarbon trap. A bypass passage is also provided to allow the exhaust gas cooler to be bypassed to speed up the activation of a lean NOx trap positioned downstream from the hydrocarbon trap prior to hydrocarbon release.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for heating a catalytic converter which is arranged in the exhaust-gas path of an internal combustion engine with direct injection and spark ignition. In the method, a first fuel injection takes place in the intake stroke (E), whereas a second fuel injection begins in the combustion stroke after top dead center and prior to the spark ignition of the air/fuel mix. It is preferable for the second fuel injection to continue beyond the ignition instant until the pressure in the combustion chamber reaches the fuel injection pressure.