JCB will offer a B100 biodiesel fuel option in tracked excavators sold across Europe, using fuel derived from recycled vegetable oils
The Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), is derived entirely from renewable biological sources and contains no fossil diesel.
Made from recycled vegetable oils through a process called transesterification, the fuel can be used in newly manufactured JCB 140X, 145XR, 150X, 220X and 245XR models from June 2026.
JCB was keen to highlight its progress in the non-fossil fuel sphere, claiming that many engine suppliers have only approved the use of B10 or B20 biodiesel, fuels which are 10% or 20% biodiesel and 90% or 80% mineral diesel, respectively.
The fuel is compliant with BS EN 14214 and certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard
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. 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.
Responding to requests from major contractors for fossil-free fuel
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.”
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