Govt to ensure B10 biodiesel will comply with required standards

PETALING JAYA: The Plantation Industries and Commodities Ministry (MPIC) has sought to allay fears of those using diesel-powered cars whose engine warranty might become void with the government's plan to to push through the roll-out of B10 biodiesel nationwide.
"The B10 standard, which has been in development since 2013, has been given the provisional standard under MS 2535:2013(P). In this context, the government will ensure that all B10 sold in the country complies with this standard.
"Currently, a number of automotive manufacturers including Mercedes Benz, Scania, Peugeot, UD Truck and Volvo Truck had indicated acceptance of B10," the ministry told theSun in response to a written query from theSun.
It added that there was extensive consultation with stakeholders such as Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (Jama), Malaysian Automobiles Association (MAA), petroleum companies and biodiesel producers ahead of the B10 programme.
Additionally, the government through the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) had conducted B10 field trials on 75 vehicles since Jan 2013.
"The trials indicates no negative effects such as engine oil dilution, fuel filter plugging and fuel injector clogging. Currently, some MPOB (the Malaysian Palm Oil Board) vehicles are also running on B20 without any problem reported," it said.
It also stated that from feedback obtained through test results and field trials, the B10 programme will be implemented with the following exemptions:
>> petrol stations in highlands including Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands in Pahang as well as Kundasang in Sabah will be allowed to continue supply of B7
>> petrol stations selling Euro 5 grade diesel will be allowed to retail the B7 blend
Currently, the Euro 5 diesel is available at over 100 petrol stations in the country. This provides consumers a choice of B7 or B10.
B10 grade means 10% palm oil and 90% mineral diesel.
At the moment, Malaysia's diesel is a B7 grade which means it is 7% palm oil and 93% mineral diesel.