Alternative Fuel Trial

Key Benefits

Using telematics we were able to capture key data on performance, and economy – with the results of using GTL fuel in the main and auxiliary (donkey) engines. In addition, by working in conjunction with IPU we have carried out extensive tests around both GTL and none GTL run vehicles illustrating the differences of NOx emissions on both the main and auxiliary engines. The results show that the vehicle running on GTL fuel has 57% lower NOx ppm on the main engine (no load), 58% reduction on the auxiliary engine (no load), 91% reduction Main Engine (travelling) and 23% reduction on the auxiliary engine (sweeping). This represents a significant reduction which is immediately obvious in the operating locale. In addition a vehicle running on standard diesel fuel would need to undergo regeneration of the diesel particulate filter on average two to three times a week. The trial results show that the same vehicle running on GTL fuel only needed to be regenerated every two to three weeks – resulting in a significant reduction in wear and tear of the vehicle and possible downtime. AdBlue Consumption - every one of Go Plant’s vehicles requires the use of AdBlue in its exhaust system in order to reduce the NOx emissions produced by the diesel engine. Results from the trial show that the vehicles run on GTL fuel required 50% less AdBlue than those on conventional diesel. No Need for Modifications - Shell GTL is a drop in fuel and can be used as a direct fuel replacement in heavy and light duty engines without the need for any modifications to the vehicle or parts No Infrastructure Changes Required - unlike electric vehicles which require the availability of dedicated points to regularly re-charge the battery, the simple replacement of diesel by GTL fuel requires no infrastructure changes at all. Immediate Impact - whilst lifecycle electric vehicle emissions are reported to be around three times lower than a conventional vehicle, the impact of lower NOx emissions from a GTL-fuelled vehicle is immediate (NOx emissions from a non-GTL vehicle are around 68 parts per million whilst emissions from a GTL vehicle are on average 6 parts per million – a huge 91% reduction) More Biodegradable - Shell GTL fuel is proven to be less harmful to the environment than conventional diesel fuels and can be classified as ‘readily biodegradeable’ The results above are hugely encouraging and have showcased the effectiveness across the board of utilising alternative fuel options. With immediate reductions in emissions, and no need for costly modifications – the use of GTL fuel in heavy duty commercial vehicles is a huge step forward for us as an organisation future-proofing our fleet, and supporting our customers to meet growing environmental targets and combat their impact on the world’s climate.