Diversifying Fleet Fuels with Diesel, Renewable Diesel, CNG, and More

Energy provider Chevron is encouraging fleet operators to adopt a multi-faceted approach to fuel procurement rather than switching to a single alternative source. In a report by FreightWaves, principal biofuels scientist Dave Slade noted that maintaining a diverse portfolio allows companies to navigate price fluctuations and seasonal availability. The company currently offers a variety of solutions, including traditional petroleum diesel, renewable natural gas, and various biodiesel blends.

Quality remains a primary concern for operators integrating renewable fuels into their supply chains. Slade emphasized that poorly processed biodiesels can result in equipment downtime due to filter blockages or failure in cold climates. To mitigate these risks, Chevron suggests that fleets verify fuel specifications against specific operating environments. The company also offers testing services to help clients determine the root causes of performance issues involving high-cost equipment.

The use of compressed natural gas is highlighted as a method for stabilizing fuel budgets. Historical data from the Department of Energy indicates that natural gas prices often experience less volatility than petroleum-based fuels. To lower the barrier for adoption, Chevron and Cummins have launched a demonstration program allowing eligible fleets to test heavy-duty natural gas engines for up to 18 days, providing an opportunity to evaluate performance before committing to a full conversion.

Technical collaborations are also focused on streamlining maintenance for mixed-fuel fleets. Lubricant technology, such as the Delo 600 ADF, has been approved for both diesel and natural gas engines, which may allow operators to consolidate their inventory. Slade argues that selecting the right energy source is essentially "choosing the right tool for the job," depending on specific goals, budgets, and hardware requirements.