 as an alternative to diesel fuel in a Class 156 train.){kind=link}
SCOTRAIL are running a new trial using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as an alternative to diesel fuel in a Class 156 train.
The trial began on February 19 and will last 12 weeks at the Corkerhill Depot, being conducted in partnership with Angel Trains and Crown Oil.
If successful, HVO could reduce greenhouse emissions on Scotland’s railway. It would act as a transition fuel while carbon-neutral fuels such as green hydrogen become more accessible.
HVO is a renewable and biodegradable fuel that complies with fire safety standards. Compared to traditional diesel, HVO reduces carbon emissions by up to 16% and improves air quality by almost a third.
Poul Wend Hansen, ScotRail’s head of sustainability, said: “This trial is an exciting step forward in our commitment to reducing the environmental impact of Scotland’s railways.
“HVO has the potential to significantly lower our carbon footprint while allowing us to continue using existing diesel trains more sustainably.
“We’re eager to see the results and assess how this fuel could be part of a greener future for rail travel.”
The key benefits of HVO include:
- A renewable fuel source made of waste products from agricultural and food production activities.
- Up to 16 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
- It can be used in existing diesel engines without modification.
- Cleaner air quality with a reduction in nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter, and carbon monoxide emissions (black smoke).
The trial has seen the installation of a dedicated HVO fuel tank at Corkerhill Depot. Weekly fuel deliveries will support the operation of a single Class 156 unit (156 436), which will remain in passenger service throughout the trial.