A popular car brand is developing a new fuel that could help meet the company's net zero goals, in addition to slashing emissions.
Mazda has launched a new demonstration trial using biodiesel fuel, namely hydrotreated vegetable oil, for finished vehicle transport trailers.
The trial, which launched last month, sees Mazda collaborating with Nippon Express Co to ensure that fuel switching can be used as a decarbonisation option.
Mazda said the trial was taking place as it works towards its net zero goals, which are headlined by its aim to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire supply chain by 2050.
The two companies have outlined that they wish to "explore the potential contribution to decarbonisation" and promote the use of alternative fuels.
Demonstrations of the new biofuel will be conducted between Hofu's Nishinoura district plant and Nakanoseki finished vehicle yard in a 12-kilometre round trip.
Mazda and Nippon Express Co will evaluate fuel efficiency, performance, and operational challenges in a bid to evaluate its future use.
Two biofuel-powered trailers were used in the trial and were put under equivalent conditions to the use of conventional diesel fuel.
Mazda is working to increase the spread of sustainable biofuels with a new trial
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Mazda said it would continue to work with fuel suppliers and businesses to expand the demand for the biofuel technology.
The Hiroshima-based manufacturer stated that it aimed to enhance supply systems and infrastructure to build a "sustainable environment for the long-term use of HVO".
In the demonstration trial, the fuel consisted of around 51 per cent HVO, which is a renewable diesel fuel derived from waste cooking oil and vegetable oils.
Kazuhiko Sumi, Director, Corporate Leadership Executive Officer and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Mazda, praised the new trial.
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The biofuel used in the trial contained 51 per cent hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO)
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He said: "We consider it highly meaningful to work together with Nippon Express Co on this demonstration using HVO.
"By steadily accumulating insights on fuel efficiency, performance, and operational aspects through real-world operations, and by collaborating with regional partners, we will further promote the practical application and expansion of this initiative."
The two companies have pledged to build on the findings of the trial and will work with like-minded partners to further the use of biofuels.
This was echoed by Osamu Sasaki, Executive Officer, Head of Mobility Business Sales Division at Nippon Express Co, saying: "We are honoured to participate as a logistics partner in Mazda's carbon neutrality initiative and to engage in this HVO-based demonstration.
Mazda said it was working to 'build a sustainable environment for the long-term use of HVO'
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"Leveraging our expertise in finished vehicle logistics, we will carefully evaluate the impact of fuel switching on transport quality and operations, and contribute to the realisation of sustainable logistics and decarbonisation of the entire supply chain."
Mazda continues to work towards cutting its emissions output with a product range that includes several electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that Mazda have registered 12,945 in the UK so far this year, capturing a market share of 1.4 per cent.