A Senate proposal includes $1.5 million for biodiesel testing, if eventually approved by Congress, is expected to increase the likelihood that major automakers will approve biodiesel blends for their 2007 and beyond engines, according to information from the National Biodiesel Board.
Recent regulatory changes aimed at improving the emissions profile of diesel engines will require significant advancement in engine technologies. Auto and engine makers are stepping up to meet the challenges presented by these regulatory standards, which take effect in model years 2007 (on-road) and 2010 (off-road), the Biodiesel Board said.
If the legislation meets final approval, research areas will likely include:
•Engine durability studies using biodiesel blends.
•B20 testing in post-2007 engines (on and off-highway).
•Funding for research and outreach on biodiesel quality, emissions, compatibility with advanced engines and emission control systems.
Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from resources such as soybean oil or other fats and vegetable oils. Production tripled in 2005 to 75 million gallons, from 25 million gallons in 2004. The industry is on track to produce 150 million gallons this year. Sixty-five biodiesel plants supply the nation, with another 50 under construction, the board said.