For Fleets

Biodiesel has a proven track record. In terms of horsepower, fuel economy, and torque, biodiesel is equivalent to diesel. Biodiesel increases the lubricity of the fuel, which leads to longer engine life, lower maintenance costs, less equipment downtime, and protection against fuel injector failure. Biodiesel exceeds diesel in cetane number, resulting in superior ignition. Biodiesel is nontoxic, biodegradable, and has a higher flash point than diesel, making it more versatile where safety is concerned.

Biodiesel has superior detergent characteristics; using biodiesel can initially reduce particulate, gum and varnish buildup in engine parts, leading to clogged filters. Cleaning or replacing filters regularly upon switching to biodiesel eliminates any potential problems. Continuing to use biodiesel keeps fuel lines clear.

Biodiesel works well, even in cold climates. The same antifreeze precautions need to be taken as those with diesel. In some instances, cold weather starting and performance improve with the use of a B20 blend.

For districts that have already begun to make changes to their fleets, biodiesel can be used with ultra-low sulfur diesel, particulate traps, catalytic converters, and in diesel hybrid vehicles. Now with the lower sulfur emissions standards (ULSD) initiated in September of 2006, biodiesel is even more attractive as an additive. Adding even two percent biodiesel to low sulfur diesel restores the lubricity.

Another advantage is that no additional parts are needed when biodiesel is used. Fleets can keep their spare part inventories, current vehicles, and fueling infrastructures.

Congress approved the use of biodiesel as an Energy Policy Act compliance strategy in 1998. The legislation allows EPAct-covered fleets to meet their alternative fuel vehicle purchase requirements simply by buying 450 gallons of 100% biodiesel and burning it in a 20% or higher blend with diesel fuel in vehicles over 8,500 pounds.

To answer the majority of your initial quations, please consult our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), as related to biodiesel use in fleets or contact us for additional information.