JCB leads the way with new renewable excavator fuel option

• JCB became the first in the industry to approve 100% renewable biodiesel (B100) for its X Series tracked excavators in Europe.

• The B100 fuel is fully renewable, derived from recycled vegetable oils, and offers up to 93% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to standard diesel.

• Specific models including the 140X, 145XR, 150X, 220X, and 245XR will support B100 from June 2026, with full warranty coverage and dealer-supported service contracts.

• JCB's extensive testing ensures performance is maintained, and engines can be converted back to conventional diesel to protect residual values and market suitability.

JCB is leading the way for on-site carbon reduction by approving a 100% renewable biodiesel fuel for use in a range of its X Series tracked excavators.

The company is set to become the first in the industry to deploy the use of B100 biodiesel in tracked excavators sold in Europe.

The fuel, which is also known as Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), is derived entirely from renewable biological sources and it can be used in newly manufactured JCB 140X, 145XR, 150X, 220X and 245XR models from June 2026. It contains no fossil diesel and is made from recycled vegetable oils, through a process called transesterification.

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Group Product Innovation Director Richard Brooks said: “This milestone development is in direct response to major contractors asking for excavators capable of running on B100. They now have a practical fuel option that delivers genuine carbon savings and one that, in the future, could be extended to other products in JCB’s range, depending on demand.

“The use of B100 biodiesel complements JCB’s market-leading battery electric and hydrogen combustion technologies as alternatives to conventional diesel power, providing customers with another route to carbon reduction and sustainable operation. Customers operating machines with Syntech ASB B100 can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 93% compared to standard diesel, delivering an immediate and significant step towards net zero without compromising performance.”

Many engine suppliers have only approved the use of B10 or B20 biodiesel, fuels which are 10 per cent or 20 per cent biodiesel and 90 per cent or 80 per cent mineral diesel, respectively.

JCB has conducted an extensive test and validation programme in conjunction with Syntech Biofuel to allow X Series excavators to be operated with Syntech ASB B100 fuel. The fuel is compliant with BS EN 14214 and certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard. JCB will provide full warranty cover for compliant B100 fuel when machines are specified with a B100 pack and supported by a JCB dealer B100 enhanced service contract. A straightforward conversion process also allows engines to be returned to conventional diesel operation, helping protect residual values and ensuring suitability for the used machinery market.