Alternative Fuel Compatibility of Kubota Diesel Engines
Introduction
Amid growing global attention to carbon neutrality alongside the stable supply and diversification of energy, the use of alternative fuels in place of conventional diesel is also spreading in the field of diesel engines.
Since entering the engine business in 1922, Kubota has manufactured engines compatible with a range of fuels, including diesel, gasoline, LPG, and natural gas.
This page provides information on the compatibility of our diesel engines with next-generation alternative fuels (biodiesel fuel [FAME] and paraffinic fuels [HVO, GTL]).
What Are Next-Generation Diesel Alternative Fuels?
On this page, we use the term "next-generation diesel alternative fuels" to refer collectively to FAME (biodiesel), HVO (renewable diesel), and GTL (synthetic diesel), which are commonly categorized as alternative or paraffinic diesel fuels.
Note: When produced from natural gas as a feedstock, GTL does not qualify as a renewable fuel; however, it is a low-carbon fuel expected to deliver reduced CO₂ emissions compared with conventional diesel.
About Biodiesel Fuel (FAME)
Biodiesel fuel (FAME) is a next-generation diesel alternative fuel made from vegetable oils and animal fats, with fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) as its main component.
Blending Ratio Standards by Region
| Region | Maximum Blending Ratio | Applicable Standard | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europe | B7 (up to 7%) | EN 590 | — |
| Japan | B5 (up to 5%) | — | In Japan, B5 is positioned as a "form of diesel." |
| United States | B5 (standard); B20 under certain conditions | ASTM D975 | — |
Kubota's Approval Status
- Approved the use of B5 diesel worldwide since 2008.
- Approved up to B7 in Europe
- In North America, approved the use of B20 under specified maintenance conditions
Precautions
- FAME is prone to oxidation and sludge formation, which can lead to corrosion (rust) of metal parts and clogging of fuel filters.
- Care is also required regarding its effects on rubber and resin parts, as well as fuel degradation.
Before use, always check in advance with the manufacturer of the machine or vehicle, or with your Kubota engine dealer.
About Paraffinic Fuels (HVO / GTL)
HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), commonly known as renewable diesel, and GTL (Gas to Liquid), a type of synthetic diesel, are representative paraffinic diesel fuels. HVO is produced from vegetable oils and animal fats, while GTL is synthesized from natural gas.
A representative fuel quality standard is the European EN 15940.
Applicable Fuels
- HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil): a paraffinic fuel produced by hydrotreating vegetable oils and animal fats
- GTL (Gas to Liquid): a paraffinic fuel synthesized from natural gas
Kubota's Approval Status
Kubota approves the use of EN 15940-compliant fuels across all models, including those compliant with the European Stage V regulations.
Precautions
- Because the fuel density is lower than that of conventional diesel, output may decrease slightly.
- Some rubber and elastomer parts may be affected, such as hardening or shrinkage.
- Please note that fuels conforming to standards other than EN 15940 may differ in quality and compatibility.
Before use, always check in advance with the manufacturer of the machine or vehicle, or with your Kubota engine dealer.
Important Notes Before Use
- Always confirm the regulations and fuel quality standards applicable in your region of use.
- The use of high-blend fuels or pure biodiesel (B100) may affect engine life and performance. Please confirm the conditions of use in advance.
- For details, please consult the manufacturer of the machine or vehicle, or your Kubota engine dealer.
Related Links
Kubota Engine's Efforts Toward Diverse Fuel Solutions
In addition to diesel and gasoline engines, Kubota has manufactured and sold LPG and natural gas engines (WG series) for many years.
In September 2022, Kubota announced the development of an industrial hydrogen engine and continues to advance research and development to support a wide range of fuels.
Kubota will continue to respond to the expanding use of next generation fuels and meet increasingly diverse energy needs, contributing to the realization of a sustainable society.
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