Biofuels are fuels produced from biological material such as plants and animal fat. On a lifecycle basis, they emit less greenhouse gases than fossil fuels when used to fuel your car. By using biofuels you can help the environment without compromising your vehicle’s performance.
The main biofuels used for transport are biodiesel and bioethanol.
Biodiesel is similar to ordinary diesel and can be mixed with ordinary diesel to make a biodiesel blend. New Zealand’s main source of biodiesel is tallow, a by-product of the meat industry. Other domestic sources include waste cooking oil and rapeseed.
Bioethanol is similar to ordinary petrol and can be blended with ordinary petrol to create a bioethanol blend. In New Zealand bioethanol is currently produced from whey, a dairy by-product.
Some biofuels for sale in New Zealand are produced domestically while others are imported. Check with your biofuel retailer for more specific information.
The ENERGYWISE website has more detailed information in biofuels
Most new vehicles, and some older vehicles, can use biofuel blends without any engine or fuel system modifications.
To find out whether your car can use a biofuel blend check the car owner’s handbook or contact an official representative of your vehicle’s manufacturer in New Zealand. You can also check the AA website or the Motor Industry Association website.
The EECA website has a list of service stations that sell biofuels.
All biofuels for sale in New Zealand must meet quality standards regulated by the government. Check out the EECA website to learn more the biofuels standards.
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