Renewable diesel’s reliable heavy-duty performance powers cities through winter

Photo: Approved Oil Co.

Winter storms may present challenges, but they also offer an opportunity to demonstrate the strength and reliability of renewable diesel.

For cities committed to cleaner air, sustainability and the efficient operation of heavy-duty vehicles in freezing conditions, renewable diesel is a clear frontrunner.

Here’s why this revolutionary fuel is transforming city fleets, from snowplows and salt trucks to fire engines and ambulances.

Photo: Approved Oil Co.

Unmatched cold-weather performance

Freezing temperatures are no match for renewable diesel.

Engineered to perform in the harshest conditions, renewable diesel maintains high fuel stability and flowability even in subzero temperatures.

Renewable diesel’s advanced formulation ensures that engines start reliably and operate efficiently no matter the weather.

This means essential city services stay on the move when they’re needed most.

Recent events in New York City exemplify this reliability.

Heading into the weekend of Jan. 17, the city faced a significant winter storm, prompting the sanitation department to issue a snow alert.

To prepare, the department deployed over 700 salt spreaders, distributing up to 20 million pounds of salt.

Additionally, 2,000 plows were on standby to clear the streets as soon as snow accumulation reached 2 inches.

Following the snowfall, temperatures plummeted, with highs in the mid-20s Fahrenheit and lows near 10 degrees, accompanied by subzero wind chills.

Despite these extreme conditions, the city’s fleet continued operating smoothly, thanks to the use of renewable diesel in heavy-duty vehicles.

A sustainable powerhouse

Renewable diesel isn’t just reliable, it’s a cleaner and greener alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

Produced from renewable resources such as plant oils, waste fats and greases, this fuel significantly reduces greenhouse-gas emissions and particulate matter.

Cities using renewable diesel can potentially cut their fleet emissions by up to 80 percent compared to conventional diesel—a big win for public health and environmental stewardship.

Versatility across city departments

A city’s fleet works tirelessly year-round.

From clearing snow and salting roads to responding to emergencies, the demands on heavy-duty vehicles are immense.

Renewable diesel seamlessly integrates into existing diesel engines, making it an easy and immediate switch for departments across the board.

Here are some key applications:

• Public works: Snowplows, salt trucks and dump trucks ensure roads are clear and safe.

• Emergency services: Fire engines, ambulances and police vehicles respond rapidly without compromise.

• Sanitation: Garbage trucks and recycling haulers continue vital operations even during storms.

Economical, infrastructure-friendly

Switching to renewable diesel is a cost-effective and straightforward process aiming to enhance sustainability.

This fuel is fully compatible with existing diesel storage tanks, fueling equipment and vehicles eliminating the need for expensive new infrastructure.

Cities can make the transition to renewable diesel without the high upfront costs typically associated with sustainability upgrades.

Additionally, renewable diesel’s exceptional shelf life and reduced maintenance needs can lead to additional cost savings over time.

A commitment to cleaner communities

By adopting renewable diesel, cities show leadership in creating cleaner, healthier communities.

Fewer emissions mean improved air quality, especially during the winter months when fuel combustion contributes heavily to pollution.

Choosing renewable diesel is a commitment to sustainability that aligns with long-term climate goals while addressing immediate operational needs.

Driving a bright, green future

When winter weather hits, cities need reliable, high-performing solutions to maintain essential services.

Renewable diesel delivers—offering unparalleled cold-weather performance, reduced emissions and easy integration into existing fleets.

From clearing roads to saving lives, this green fuel is powering a future in which sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand—moving toward a more sustainable tomorrow, one gallon at a time.