Story Posted: December 21, 2007

New Holland embraces pure biodiesel

This article was initially published in the Nov. 22, 2007 issue of The Western Producer, written by Sean Pratt

New Holland is supporting the use of pure biodiesel in all of its equipment that uses New Holland-manufactured diesel engines. The company was the first major agricultural equipment manufacturer to support a B20 blend and is now the first to warranty equipment using B100 biodiesel.

"They make a strong commitment to biodiesel by doing that. It's pretty unprecedented for a U.S. company," said Amber Thurlo Pearson from the U.S. National Biodiesel Board.

The announcement affects nearly 80 percent of the company's New Holland branded products. Suppliers of other diesel engines used in New Holland equipment have been asked to follow the lead by testing and approving higher levels of biodiesel use.

In addition to extensive internal testing, the company has been analyzing B100 blends under real conditions in conjunction with Pennsylvania State University's college of agriculture. After nearly two years of use, New Holland's tractors have shown no adverse effects in performance or maintenance.

"We are committed to providing equipment that is compliant with biodiesel use," said Paul Trella, New Holland's director of product marketing for under-100 horsepower tractors.

"As the use of biodiesel continues to gain greater acceptance and the infrastructure for providing a quality product to consumers (expands), New Holland equipment is ready."

Trella stressed it is essential to use high quality biodiesel produced to ASTM D6751 standards from a reputable supplier who can offer consistent fuel quality to ensure optimum performance and engine durability.

A few days after the New Holland announcement, John Deere clarified its stance on biodiesel.

"While we prefer the use of B5 biodiesel blends, we also know that when high quality B20 blends are available they work well in John Deere engines," said Grant Suhre, manager of field service for John Deere Power Systems.

The company said customers who make sure the biodiesel they use meets the ASTM D6751 standard, store and mix it properly and use it shortly after manufacture have its blessing to use B20 blends in all John Deere engines through Tier 3/Stage III A models.

According to the United Soybean Board, 20 engine, automobile and agricultural equipment manufacturers have approved the use of at least a B5 blend. Many have approved B20 blends but New Holland is the first to make the leap to B100.

"We are very appreciative of the support that New Holland gives to biodiesel," Thurlo Pearson said. It is a bold statement that Pearson said should instil confidence in consumers.

The National Biodiesel Board said 852 million litres of the fuel were consumed in 2006 and estimated 1.7 billion litres will be sold in 2007. Biodiesel is used in approximately 700 commercial trucking fleets and by more than half of all U.S. farmers.

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