UMY Expert Urges Fuel Quality Readiness Ahead of B50 Implementation

Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - Wahyudi, a lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering Study Programme at Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), has highlighted the importance of vehicle technology readiness and consistent biodiesel quality ahead of the mandatory B50 implementation on 1 July 2026. Wahyudi stated in Yogyakarta on Saturday that increasing the biodiesel content to 50 percent represents a progressive government move to strengthen the renewable energy transition in the transport sector. “B50 is a mixture of 50 percent diesel and 50 percent palm oil-based biodiesel. This increase in content demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to promoting sustainable energy,” Wahyudi said. Nevertheless, he stressed that biodiesel’s characteristics, which include higher viscosity and density compared to pure diesel, require technical attention, particularly for diesel vehicle owners. He explained that the latest vehicle models are generally designed to adapt to high biodiesel blends. Conversely, older diesel vehicles risk experiencing performance degradation if not accompanied by routine maintenance. “The thicker characteristics of biodiesel can affect the combustion process. In older vehicles, this condition potentially causes a reduction in power compared to using pure diesel,” he clarified. Wahyudi added that using B50 also demands extra attention to the cleanliness of the fuel system, especially the filters. Additionally, some rubber components in the fuel systems of older vehicles are at risk of wearing out more quickly. According to him, the main challenge in implementing B50 does not lie with the user side, but rather in the consistent quality of the biodiesel produced and distributed. He emphasised that the government and producers must guarantee fuel quality to prevent oxidation, which can damage quality during storage. “Vehicle users essentially do not need to make special adjustments. The most important thing is to ensure that the biodiesel circulating meets standards so that negative impacts on engines can be minimised,” he added. Apart from these technical challenges, Wahyudi assessed the development of B50 as a positive step in supporting national energy security and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. “The main goal of fuel technology development is the transition towards more environmentally friendly energy. The implementation of B50 is a strategic step for Indonesia’s energy future,” he said.