March 18, 2025 is National Biodiesel Day and Pilot Travel Centers celebrated in perhaps the best way possible: by announcing the installation of the U.S.'s first commercial fleet B99 biodiesel retail offering at its Decatur, Illinois travel center.
B99, also known as biodiesel, is a low-carbon fuel made from animal fats, vegetable oils, and even recycled restaurant grease. It's cleaner than traditional diesel because of its blend of 99.9% biodiesel and just 0.1% petroleum, making it ideal for the commercial trucking market.
[Related: Biodiesel: Is it a better option for trucking than EVs?]
Pilot is quick to add that ADM and PepsiCo, the latter of which operates one of North America's largest private commercial truck fleets, provided unspecified assistance to get the B99 pumps up and running.
Optimus Technologies, the manufacturer of a conversion bolt-on kit that upgrades a commercial diesel truck to operate on up to 100% biodiesel, also contributed to this rollout.
[Related: Biodiesel conversion does not void OEM warranties, Optimus Technologies CEO confirms]
"We know how important sustainability is to our customers and strive to help meet these growing needs for more sustainable fuel options for commercial fleets," said Eric Fobes, head of renewables at Pilot. "Introducing B99 at our travel centers is another way we support fleets committed to reducing carbon emissions. This collaboration with PepsiCo, ADM and Optimus Technologies exemplifies how partnerships can create impactful solutions.”
For the moment, Pilot's initial B99 biodiesel rollout will be at three locations:
- Currently available at 4030 East Boyd Road, Decatur, Illinois
- Coming this spring to 11957 Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa
- Coming this summer to 8787 South Lancaster Road, Dallas, Texas
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, biodiesel meets both the biomass-based diesel and overall advanced biofuel requirement of the Renewable Fuel Standard. Aside from producing lower emissions, biodiesel doesn't require additives and also increases engine lubricity while decreasing particulate matter.
