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FPT Industrial Is Investigating Plant-Based Biofuels

FPT Industrial Is Investigating Plant-Based Biofuels

Published 03-04-20

Submitted by CNH Industrial

FPT Industrial is working with a range of academic institutions in Brazil to develop possible biodiesel from palm trees.

 FPT Industrial a global powertrain brand of CNH Industrial N.V. (NYSE: CNHI/ MI: CNH),  invested in a production plan and tests dedicated to exploring macaúba biodiesel, with a view to developing a potential new source of sustainable fuel.

Macaúba, a native palm tree to Brazil, the Caribbean and South Florida is a multipurpose plant that can be used in construction, medical and the cosmetic industries. Recently, it’s use in the production of biodiesel is being investigated.

The research was conducted at the Technical Center in Betim, Southeast of Brazil, with the main focus on its application as a fuel for agricultural tractors. Tests for trucks and buses, as well as power generators, are planned for the future.  The macaúba oil used in the tests was extracted by Cooper Riachão, a rural producers cooperative in the region of Montes Claros, in Minas Gerais state. Following that, biodiesel was produced in an experimental plant by means of transesterification - a chemical reaction used to obtain biodiesel -  and met the standards established by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP).

The project was carried out in partnership with the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (PUC Minas), the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and Bchem Biofuels, using a FPT Industrial N67 Tier 3 engine fitted to Case IH and New Holland Agriculture tractors.  During the tests, mixtures of 10% and 20% of Macaúba biodiesel were used. The results showed performance and consumption comparable to Brazilian commercial diesel, with a reduction trend in terms of carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter (PM) emissions. This is further  evidence of FPT Industrial’s commitment to exploring innovative sustainable fuels which could yield positive benefits.

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CNH Industrial (NYSE: CNHI / MI: CNHI) is a world-class equipment and services company. Driven by its purpose of Breaking New Ground, which centers on Innovation, Sustainability and Productivity, the Company provides the strategic direction, R&D capabilities, and investments that enable the success of its global and regional Brands. Globally, Case IH and New Holland Agriculture supply 360° agriculture applications from machines to implements and the digital technologies that enhance them; and CASE and New Holland Construction Equipment deliver a full lineup of construction products that make the industry more productive. The Company’s regionally focused Brands include: STEYR, for agricultural tractors; Raven, a leader in digital agriculture, precision technology and the development of autonomous systems; Hemisphere, a leading designer and manufacturer of high-precision satellite-based positioning and heading technologies; Flexi-Coil, specializing in tillage and seeding systems; Miller, manufacturing application equipment; Kongskilde, providing tillage, seeding and hay & forage implements; and Eurocomach, producing a wide range of mini and midi excavators for the construction sector, including electric solutions.

Across a history spanning over two centuries, CNH Industrial has always been a pioneer in its sectors and continues to passionately innovate and drive customer efficiency and success. As a truly global company, CNH Industrial’s 40,000+ employees form part of a diverse and inclusive workplace, focused on empowering customers to grow, and build, a better world.

For more information and the latest financial and sustainability reports visit: cnhindustrial.com

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