BP Launches New Zealand’s Cleanest Diesel

BP today launched a new cleaner-burning diesel in Christchurch that will improve local air quality and help reduce the city’s smog problem.

The new diesel, branded BP Low Sulphur Diesel, produces less emissions gases than standard diesel and reduces exhaust smoke and odour.

It is also better for vehicles by creating less engine wear and tear.

The fuel goes on sale from today at six BP service stations in Christchurch and three commercial filling stations for heavy vehicles. It is the same price as conventional diesel (82.9 cents as at today’s prices).

Christchurch is the first and only city in New Zealand to sell the new fuel, although BP aims to introduce it to other cities as soon as possible.

BP chose Christchurch because it believes it can make a tangible difference in the city plagued by winter smog problems.

Supply of the diesel further afield depends largely on an upgrade of the Marsden Point refinery, which can currently only produce limited quantities of the new fuel.

BP’s Managing Director Peter Griffiths said today’s launch demonstrates BP’s global commitment to making and selling fuels which are better for the environment wherever it can, without compromising efficiency and power.

“The low sulphur diesel will provide the same or better performance as our current diesel, while the benefits to the environment are substantial.”

The new fuel has 80% less sulphur and emits 25% less fine particulates and soot. Fine particulates are invisible dust-like particles emitted via the exhaust of diesel-powered vehicles. They have been linked to increases in respiratory problems, particularly in cities with smog problems.

BP Low Sulphur Diesel can be used in all normal diesel engines without adjustment. Vehicles that will benefit most are newer well-maintained light duty cars, four-wheel drive vehicles, vans and utes and heavy duty vehicles such as buses and trucks.

Mr Griffiths said that BP would also launch New Zealand’s most environmentally-friendly petrol into Auckland and Wellington later this month.

The petrol, BP Ultimate, has a guaranteed minimum octane rating of 97.5 and will significantly outperform all other grades of petrol available in New Zealand.

“The cleaner fuels are another practical example of our commitment to the environment following on from our launch of New Zealand’s first solar-powered service station in Auckland last year,” said Mr Griffiths.

BP is the first oil company in New Zealand to sell petrol and diesel that is better for the environment. “These new fuels are a significant investment for us; they cost more to make than conventional fuels, but we are committed to taking practical steps to improve our environment.”

Mr Griffiths urged other oil companies to follow BP’s lead so that all New Zealanders can experience the benefits of cleaner fuels.

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