Expert: Older diesel vehicles need adaptation ahead of B50 implementation

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The planned phased implementation of B50 biodiesel fuel requires readiness not only in terms of fuel supply, but also from owners of older generation diesel vehicles. Automotive expert from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), Yannes Martinus Pasaribu, stated that diesel vehicles currently on the road can essentially use B50, but some components in older vehicles require greater attention due to biodiesel’s different characteristics compared to conventional diesel. “Technically, older diesel vehicles with mechanical injection need special attention,” Yannes said when contacted by ANTARA from Jakarta on Monday. According to him, the readiness for B50 implementation must also be supported by fuel distribution quality and adequate education for vehicle users. This is important so that the benefits of biodiesel use can be obtained without causing disruptions to vehicle operations. Therefore, fuel station operators must ensure storage tanks are kept free from excessive moisture to maintain fuel quality until it reaches consumers. In addition, workshop mechanics and consumers need early socialisation on proper engine maintenance, such as shortening the diesel filter replacement interval, especially for older diesel vehicles. He considers education to be one of the key factors in the transition towards the use of higher biodiesel blends. Regarding the benefits the public can experience, he said the impact of B50 will differ between older and modern diesel vehicles. For older diesel vehicles, which are widely used as commercial and logistics fleets, B50 has the potential to help maintain domestic fuel supply stability. “B50 ensures fuel supply stability in the market so that logistics operational costs remain economical and business turnover is maintained, provided users are more disciplined in maintenance such as replacing diesel filters,” he said. Meanwhile, for modern diesel vehicles equipped with common rail technology, B50 is considered to potentially offer benefits in terms of exhaust emission quality. “For users of modern common rail diesel vehicles, the greatest benefit of B50 is the reduction of thick black soot plumes in the exhaust gas,” Yannes remarked.