Will it work this time?

In Phase 2, the 13 diesel cars chalked up 3,000-6,000 km each and went through a number of tests successfully. The test for smoke opacity (particle emissions) showed that the high tech diesel cars were 95% to 99% below the in-use smoke opacity limit of 50 HSU in Singapore.

Furthermore, independent tests showed that modern diesel cars not only consumed an average of 33% less fuel than conventional petrol engines and emit 25% less carbon dioxide (CO2), but also delivered higher performance and driving pleasure with up to 50% increased torque.

In addition, the biodiesel fuel content further boosted the positive effect on global warming by reducing up to 50% less CO2 emissions compared to petroleum based diesel. In fact, modern diesel cars have won a number of environmental awards.

By the way, the World Green Car 2007 in New York and the Michelin Challenge Bibendum Rally in China were both won by the ultra clean diesel-powered Mercedes E300 Bluetech followed closely by the diesel-powered Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion and a number of other clean diesel, petrol hybrid and CNG fuel-powered cars.

This project, led by Robert Bosch (SEA) Pte Ltd has eight partners:

The Economic Development Board
National Environment Agency
Daimler (SEA) Pte Ltd
DieselTech Pte Ltd
Kuok Oils & Grains
Nexsol (Singapore) Pte Ltd, Shell Eastern Petroleum (Pte) Ltd
Volkswagen Group Singapore Pte Ltd

The key premise of this three-year project is that the biodiesel used comes from sustainable and renewable sources and is produced in an environmentally conscious way.

Hang in tight guys. We might just get the break to cheaper and longer lasting fuel that we've been hoping for, possibly with lowered diesel tax structures from LTA. Watch out for detailed testing of these biodiesel cars done by Oneshift, very soon!

Credits: story by Amery Reuben