A system for an engine has an upstream emission control device with a washcoat having a predetermined amount of precious metal disassociated with NOx storage material, where the upstream emission control device in a close coupled location to an exhaust manifold of the engine. The system also includes a downstream emission control device coupled to the upstream emission control device. Further, a controller is used for operating the engine lean with retarded ignition timing to generate heat and raise temperatures of said upstream and downstream emission control devices. The controller also determines whether temperature of said upstream device has reached a predetermined value, and in response to said determination, operates the engine rich at least to reduce NOx stored in said upstream emission control device during said lean operation.