photo: Freightliner press materials/Freightliner train
Freightliner, a subsidiary of Genesee & Wyoming Inc. (G&W) and a leading UK rail freight operator, is supporting the development of Gd45 powered by Shell GTL Fuel, a new lower emission fuel, and will be the first to use the product (supplied by Green Biofuels Ltd) for operational trials on some of its diesel-powered services in support of their commitment to enhancing the environmental benefits of rail freight transportation.
Freightliner has been extensively trialing the fuel on some of its services over recent months in partnership with GBF and Shell. Gd45 Powered by Shell GTL Fuel consists of 55% Shell GTL (gas to liquids)Fuel and 45% Gd+ HVO. Data collected from the testing shows significant emissions reductions in diesel engines of 84% methane, 14% NOx, and 18% ultra-fine particulates when compared to regular diesel. There was no performance impact or loss of horsepower.
The substantial carbon and air quality benefits show that this will be an important transitional fuel on the journey to net-zero by 2050. Transitioning across to Gd45 powered by Shell GTL Fuel for diesel services would lower Freightliner’s CO2e emissions by 50%, equivalent to 91,740mt every year.
Tim Shakerley, Managing Director, Rail at Freightliner, comments:
“With COP 26 focusing global attention on the importance of climate change, Freightliner is committed to and at the forefront of a number of energy-saving initiatives aimed at reducing their carbon footprint even further.
“Rail is already the most carbon-efficient mode for transporting freight around Great Britain, and growing volumes using alternative fuels will be crucial to support the decarbonization of the UK economy.
“The journey to net-zero 2050 will require a range of different technologies and fuels, and we are delighted to have supported the development of this transitional fuel. The emissions reductions are exceptional, with average reduced CO2e emissions of 43%, a reduction in NOx of 14%, and 18% fewer ultra-fine particulates compared to conventional diesel, demonstrating the strong carbon and air quality benefits of this fuel.
“Working closely with GBF and Shell, the trials show that this fuel offers significant environmental gains, with no performance impact or loss of horsepower. We are delighted that Freightliner will continue operational trials of the Gd45 Powered by Shell GTL Fuel across a number of our services.”
Source: Freightliner press releases