History of the diesel car developments (Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Peugeot/Citroën, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Volkswagen Group) There were also small diesel engines produced in England by British Leyland and Perkins. For reasons of economy the petrol BMC "B" series engine was dieselised and produced in capacities of 1.5 and 1.8 litres. Perkins produced the 4.99, 4.107 and 4.108 engines all of which were extremely reliable. Later BL produced the five main bearing "O" series engine which was extremely strong. Petrol turbo variants could make 200HP and the engine was ideal for converting to a diesel. In fact, the 1988 Austin-Rover MDi unit (also known as the 'Perkins
DESA (company) engine assembly began in 1996, RK 215 engine production began in 2000. In 2009 the company unveiled Iran's first indigenous heavy diesel engine, the D87. A dual fuel (gas / diesel) version is also to be produced. The company produces diesel generators for permanent and emergency electricity supply. 104 units have been supplied to the Iran Telecommunications Company. The company is a supplier to both the Iranian Islamic Republic Railways and the Raja Passenger Train Company. DESA has manufactured the Ruston RK 215 diesel engine for the AD43C mainline diesel locomotive, of which 70 units were manufactured by Wagon Pars.