March 21, 2005
Volkswagen says its diesel engines can run on beans, soybeans that is. The German automaker has decreed that diesel fuels containing five percent soybean oil or other natural farm products are suitable for all of its diesel engines sold in the United States -- and it is extending its warranty coverage accordingly.
The announcement means that VW owners can safely use what's known as B-5 biodiesel, which contains up to five percent vegetable oil. VW says it is researching biodiesel fuels containing as much as 20 percent farm products.
Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made primarily from vegetable or animal oils. In the United States, the most common source is soybean oil. Waste vegetable oil left over from deep fryers also can be used.
VW intends to "capitalize on the significant environmental, economic and quality-related benefits of increased biodiesel usage," said Frank Witter, CEO of Volkswagen of America.
The warranty decision is the result of a research agreement between Volkswagen and Arthur Daniels Midland Co. the world's largest grain processor. ADM said it expects the decision will result in increased demand for soybeans as well as less pollution.
Volkswagens commitment to B5 comes after a year of extensive testing and development in cooperation with ADM, and discussions with the biodiesel industry about technical specifications required for the fuel to be compatible with current and future diesel technology, the companies said.
Volkswagen has allowed the use of BT fuel in its engines in Europe for years.
Clean-burning biodiesels are environmentally friendly and substantially reduce emissions of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and particulate matter. As an alternative and renewable fuel, biodiesel can also reduce overall global dependence on fossil fuels. When made from plant-based feedstocks such as soybeans, biodiesel directly offsets net emissions of CO2, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
