Not only pushing ahead in terms of hydrogen powered machinery, JCB is now launching a 100% renewable biodiesel fuel for use in its X Series of tracked excavators.
The B100fuel, which is also known as Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), is derived entirely from renewable biological sources, and it can be used in newly manufactured 140X, 145XR, 150X, 220X and 245XR models from June 2026. It contains no fossil diesel and is made from recycled vegetable oils, through a process called 'transesterification' - an entirely different process to the production of the much vaunted HVO, then.
“This milestone development is in direct response to major contractors asking for excavators capable of running on B100. They now have a practical fuel option that delivers genuine carbon savings and one that, in the future, could be extended to other products in JCB’s range, depending on demand," explained Group Product Innovation Director Richard Brooks.
“Customers operating machines with Syntech ASB B100 can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 93% compared to standard diesel, delivering an immediate and significant step towards net zero without compromising performance.”
Other engine suppliers have only approved the use of B10 or B20 biodiesel, says JCB - fuels which are 10 per cent or 20 per cent biodiesel and 90 per cent or 80 per cent mineral diesel.
However, JCB has conducted a test and validation programme in conjunction with Syntech Biofuel to allow X Series excavators to be operated with Syntech ASB B100 fuel. The fuel is compliant with BS EN 14214 and certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard.
JCB will provide full warranty cover for compliant B100 fuel when machines are specified with a B100 pack and supported by a JCB dealer B100 enhanced service contract. A straightforward conversion process also allows engines to be returned to conventional diesel operation, helping protect residual values and ensuring suitability for the used machinery market.
