FRIDAY 18 MAY 2007

Biodiesel Blend A Leap Forward For Leopard

Christchurch-based urban and tour coachline company Leopard is now the first bus company in New Zealand to run its entire fleet of 100 diesel vehicles on a 5 per cent biodiesel blend (B5).

Since September last year, Leopard Coachlines has been undertaking a biodiesel trial in conjunction with Environment Canterbury (ECan) and other partners.

“We are delighted to have been part of the Environment Canterbury trial. Leopard has provided two buses which have run successfully on a B20 mix for several months now,” says Martz Witty spokesman for Leopard.

“As a result of the trial, Leopard has now moved to running its whole fleet on the B5 blend, one year ahead of Government requirements. The first bulk shipment of biodiesel was delivered last week to Leopard’s Christchurch depot and our vehicles have been changed over to the B5 blend as they refuel.

“As well, two vehicles will remain on a B20 trial and be carefully monitored, especially as we head into winter, as we need to ensure that the cold climate will not affect such a high biodiesel mix.

“ECan’s results from the trial to date indicate a 5 per cent reduction in the emissions of carbon monoxide and particulates as a result of using the B5 mix, both of which are very significant for our urban fleet. There have been no performance or other issues as a result of moving to the B5 mix.

“Using a biodiesel blend also reduces our dependence on imported fossil fuels and uses a locally sourced fuel. Leopard uses around two million litres of diesel a year, so a 5 per cent reduction in fossil fuel usage is a significant contribution.” Leopard has a fleet of 40 urban buses, 15 charter and school buses and about 40 tourist coaches, as well as a number of service and other vehicles. All are now running on the B5 mix.

The biodiesel is manufactured by Bio Diesel Oils NZ Ltd from tallow and supplied in bulk to Leopard, where it is blended with standard diesel to form the B5 mix.

ENDS