The biofuel trial will involve the use of Green D + HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil), which is predominantly used as cooking oil. Gd+ HVO has an additive that reduces NOx in the exhaust gases through oxidisation. It is supplied by New Era Fuels via partner Green Biofuels.
According to Green Biofuels, the environmental benefits of using the fuel include up to 90% less carbon dioxide, up to 86% reductions in PM25 and PM10 and up to 30% reductions of NOx.
Nicola Blake, Amey account director in Kent, said: “The teams at our Ashford depot are excited to be involved in the biofuel trial that has the potential to reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%. At Amey we’re committed to continually improving our impact on the environment. By working in collaboration with Kent County Council, New Era Fuels and their partners Green Biofuels, we’re able to trial new innovations and find alternative ways of working that help to us achieve zero emission transport.”
For the most effective output, Green D+ HVO is best used in vehicles with Euro VI engines. This type of engine can be found in Kent’s winter maintenance and gritting vehicles, can be used in all engines conforming to EN15940 and is a direct replacement for diesel.
Kent County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, David Brazier said: “Our participation in this trial is leading the way to helping us understand how we, and other local authorities around the country, can improve the sustainability of our services.”
During the first four weeks of the trial daily emission testing will be carried out to understand how much carbon, particulates and NOx have been reduced.