
Here's what you need to know:
- Biodiesel is being adopted as a practical, low-carbon fuel alternative for fleets aiming to reduce emissions.
- A new above-ground B99 biodiesel pump — the first of its kind in the U.S. —has been installed at a Pilot Travel Center in Urbandale, Iowa.
- The ribbon-cutting ceremony involved Iowa state officials, Pilot Travel Centers, Optimus Technologies, and PepsiCo.
- Pilot Travel Centers plans to open third location in Dallas, Texas this summer.
Renewable diesel continues to play a significant role for fleets nationwide as they proceed with decarbonization efforts. Biodiesel, in particular, is an accessible and affordable option.
[Related: Renewable diesel and biodiesels: Fleet operators can go green without buying new trucks]
Earlier this month, Iowa state leaders and officials representing Pilot Travel Centers, Optimus Technologies, and PepsiCo took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to inaugurate the installation and opening of a new B99 biodiesel pump at Pilot's Urbandale travel center, located about 14 miles away from Des Moines.
Per Biobased Diesel Daily, PepsiCo converted 20 semis from the standard No. 2 diesel to biodiesel using Optimus' fuel system technology, which Clean Trucking highlighted at ACT Expo 2024.
[Related: Biodiesel conversion does not void OEM warranties, Optimus Technologies CEO confirms]
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.
Pilot also confirmed plans to open a third B99 installation in Dallas, Texas this summer.