Volkswagen, Amyris and Solazyme promote use of renewable fuels

Volkswagen of America announced that it will work with Solazyme and Amyris, two of the world’s leaders in renewable fuels, to evaluate emissions reductions with the use of renewable fuels. The three companies will also demonstrate the performance of TDI(R) Clean Diesel technology when it is fueled by both advanced biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel. Volkswagen said each of the two companies will provide Volkswagen with its products: the new 2012 Passat TDI and 2012 Jetta TDI. The goal would be to closely examine the effects of the fuels produced by Amyris and Solazyme on Volkswagen’s clean diesel technology. Amyris has developed technology which converts plant-sourced sugars into renewable hydrocarbons for fuel and chemical applications. Solazyme, on the other hand, has developed a technology which uses the oil-producing capability of microalgae in the development of renewable oil products. The project will include a 12-month evaluation period which will provide Volkswagen engineers with valuable data which can be used to further develop its TDI Clean Diesel technology. The project will also help the company develop more efficient and cleaner burning diesel powertrains for future projects. “Partnering with two leaders in advanced biofuel technology supports Volkswagen’s goal of offering a competitive suite of technologies that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve fuel efficiency and fit the diverse needs of our customers,” said Jurgen Leohold, head of Volkswagen Group Research. (April 7, 2012)