DaimlerChrysler commits to new biofuel...
 

The company is committing to develop a new biodiesel called SunDiesel, different from regular biodiesel in that it uses the entire plant, not just the seeds or beans. This produces greater efficiency but requires more energy input to create the fuel. The company is also committing to deliver every new diesel car with a tankful of the fuel as soon as it becomes widely available. A terrific development, if you ask me:

http://wwwsg.daimlerchrysler.com/SD7DEV/GMS/TEMPLATES/GMS_PRESS_RELEASE/0,2941,0-1-64903-1-1-text-1-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0,00.html

Interesting... I wonder if that "BTL - biomass to liquid" process is similar to thermal depolymerization?

I'm glad to see DC jumping on the biofuels bandwagon again, though it remains to be seen what this sundiesel really is, and where it can be aquired, and who can make it.

peace,
sam

The New Diesel Jeep Liberty comes out of the Toledo factory on B5 (5% Bio), but running 7 new mercedes on SunDiesel is even better. It is fantastic for the major players to get behind biofuels.

This is indeed a very encouraging development. Perhaps common sense is not a lost art after all.

One thing I don't understand though: why the heck is biodiesel not price-competitive in Europe right now, if it's tax free? It's less than twice as expensive as dino-diesel in US, and from what I understand in Europe tax constitutes more than a half of fuel price. That would suggest that biodiesel sold at US prices in Europe should be almost cheaper than dino-diesel (which apparently gets taxed more than gasoline?). What am I missing?

vw partner interesting
 

i think it was biodieselnow forum or maybe greasecar that had some posts statiing that vw did not endorse bio d as a fuel for their cars and would not honor warrenty claims of the fuel.

just how disappointed will chrysler diesel owners become, after the first tank, when they find out bio d is few and far between in the states?

No engine manufacturer will honor warranty claims due to bad fuel. All engine manufacturers warranty for parts and workmanship, if you use a fuel that is incompatible with the parts (natural rubber) or of bad quality (old biodiesel has gums that will damage fuel injection equipment) it is your fault and responsibility. If your stereo goes out, it isn't the biodiesel.

Prices in Europe: I believe biodiesel is typically less expensive than Dino-diesel in Germany.

Hopefully disappointed enough that they will call their local politicians demanding support for biodiesel. ;)

peace,
sam

I wonder if this biofuel will be as good as BMW's hydrogen fuel... Looks very promising though!