New Lower Sulfur Diesel On The Way

SEATTLE - Today's diesel engines run on what's called low-sulfur diesel. It was introduced in 1993 to reduce tailpipe emissions. Now, the Environmental Protection Agency wants diesel engines to pollute even less; starting with the 2007 models.

To meet those tougher emission standards, automakers have redesigned their diesel engines to use a new fuel - Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel.

While Low Sulfur Diesel can have up to 500 ppm of sulfur, Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel can have no more than 15 ppm. In four years from now, December 2010, all diesel fuel sold in the U.S. will be ultra-low sulfur.

"It will reduce particulate emissions and nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately a factor of 10," says the EPA's Wayne Elson.

Few stations are selling the new diesel yet. That should change in mid-October, when the 2007 model cars hit the market.

Stations selling the old Low Sulfur Diesel are required to put a bright green sticker on the pump. It's there to let you know this diesel cannot be used in 2007 model year vehicles or later and that it's a violation of federal law to do so.

The EPA says the new diesel will not affect engine performance but it might cause a slight decrease in mileage. Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel is backwards compatible - it can be used in older vehicles. Any diesel that uses it will pollute less.

It's a good bet this new fuel will cost a few cents a gallon more, at least at first.

For More Information:

Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance