Energy Department reveals list of B20 Biodiesel-powered vehicles

Energy Department reveals list of B20 Biodiesel-powered vehicles

BANGKOK, 12th April 2019 (NNT) – The Department of Energy is encouraging the use of B20 oil, adding compatible vehicles to its official list of those eligible for a new tax scheme.

The Department of Energy Director-General Nantika Thangsuphanich revealed today that the Ministry of Energy has had discussions with the Thai Automotive Industry Association (TAIA) on the promotion of B20 oil for use in vehicles, which helps reduce dust emissions and advances the national palm oil supply absorption plan, set to officially promote new B20 compatible vehicles eligible for a new tax scheme aimed at raising B20 consumption to 15 million liters daily.

Vehicles in Thailand officially certified for B20 use are manufactured by two companies:

Toyota Motors Thailand

- 41 Hilux and Fortuner models from 2015 (37 Hilux models and 4 Fortuner models) can be fuelled with B20 without any conditions.

- 21 Hilux and Fortuner models introduced from August 2011 - 2015 can use B20 oil, however frequent use of this oil type at a temperature below 20 degrees Celsius should follow guidances given by authorized dealers.

- 20 D-MAX models introduced between 2012-2019 can use B20 oil after inspection and changes of some parts at certified service centers.

- 12 MU-X models introduced between 2014-2019 can use B20 oil after an inspection and changes of some parts at certified service centers.

The Department of Energy is set to extend B20 consumption to small sedan vehicles with diesel engines. The department is currently in talks with resellers from each brand to promote the use of 15 million liters of B20 daily, and B7 at 50 million liters daily, which will help reduce CPO by 2 million tons a year in compliance with the national palm oil strategy.

There are currently 156 oil stations providing the supply of B20 oil, and 173 fleets operate using this oil type.