Comprehensive list of biodiesel myths dispelled
Gas2.0, a website focused on biofuels, has published a very interesting set of 22 dispelled biodiesel myths. Some of them are dispensed with very straightforwardly and all are in favor of using biodiesel.The, um, busted "myths" range from common confusions between ethanol and biodiesel to the real impact of biodiesel in the environment and how easy or difficult is to find. Common questions about its use directly in cars, its impact on power and consumption, exhaust smell and emissions are also answered.
One issue which, in my opinion, is not clearly answered is what happens to warranties on new cars whem biodiesel is added to the mix. Sure, only a few carmakers clearly state which blends of biodiesel are accepted (PSA, for instance), a little more info on this topic would've been nice.
[Source: Gas2.0 (h/t to Clayton)]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
rgseidl 3:59PM (4/11/2008)
The reason manufacturers are so cagey about committing to supporting high blends is highly variable fuel quality. There are now technical standards in both Europe and the US, but enforcement is still very patchy. High levels of suspended PM in the fuel can cause abrasion damage in the fuel pump and injector nozzles, especially at the very high pressures used in modern Euro 4 and Euro 5 compliant engines.
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Kevin Nugent 8:41PM (4/11/2008)
Do your own research and get the information yourself. The manufacturer will only give you his analysis from his perspective
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Clayton 6:47PM (4/16/2008)
The reason I couldn't add more to the warranty issue is that there really isn't that much more to say. The short answer is that most manufacturers warranty a 5% biodiesel blend. Some up to 20%. But thats it.
We may start to see more car manufacturers explicitly prohibit biodiesel in 2007+ models, for reasons that I can't fathom (since they're fine with biodiesel in European version).
Best way to find out is to contact your car's (or future car's) manufacturer.
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