Kubota (UK) Ltd has approved use of the paraffinic fuels HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and GTL (Gas To Liquid) in all its diesel engines, which they say will contribute to a lower carbon footprint for Kubota internal combustion engines.

Approval follows the company's internal evaluation of these alternative fuels. It has confirmed that any paraffinic fuel that complies with the European standard EN15940, is suitable for use in all its diesel engines. 

“This is a tremendous benefit for operators who are required to meet environmental conditions where CO2 emissions are monitored and measured,” explained Tim Yates, Kubota (UK)’s agricultural and ground care sales manager. “For those working in urban locations for example, or with county councils and environmental projects, achieving a lower carbon footprint is now possible with Kubota powered equipment.”

The manufacturer says they recognise that HVO, which is synthesised from vegetable oil and fat, and GTL which is synthesised from natural gas, are becoming increasingly popular as alternative fuels due to their environmental benefits that offer reduced emissions.

Tim continued, “This is another example of Kubota’s engineering excellence, to enable a change in approved fuel without any modification. It provides owners and operators with yet another fuel choice, to suit their operating environment.”

When using these fuels, operators should comply with any appropriate local regulations in the areas being used say Kubota. There is no requirement to flush fuel tanks or change filters, as HVO and GTL are safe to mix with diesel. Nor are there changes to existing maintenance intervals or warranty conditions when using these fuels. Operators may notice a slight degradation in engine performance from using the lower density paraffinic fuels, compared to diesel.