Car makers have raised concerns with a supermarket over the sale of a high blend biodiesel called B30. Many are worried that sensitive engine components like fuel injectors could be damaged by the fuel which is currently sold through 113 Morrisons sites across the UK.
Filling up with B30 threatens owners' warranties and trade body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has urged the supermarket to display clearer and more prominent warnings for its customers.
B30 is 30% biomass, a much higher blend of FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester) than regular diesel which can include up to 5% natural matter. Warnings on Morrisons' nozzle clips advise customers to check with the manufacturer before use, a statement repeated in a two-inch high sticker on the pump itself. But manufacturers say these signs are too small.
The SMMT has confirmed that manufacturers are undertaking tests on the fuel. But Morrisons' website already claims B30 is compatible with most diesel engines. A minority of car makers share their confidence, but the vast majority recommend against its use.
What do the car makers say?
We followed advice and called 17 customer relation departments to check the position, claiming to be in the market for a new diesel car. Ford, Mercedes and Toyota referred us to the local dealer for technical advice.
Fifteen - Audi, BMW, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Kia, Mercedes, Nissan, Renault, Toyota, Vauxhall, Volvo and VW - told us that B30 was not recommended for use with their diesel engines. Peugeot and Citroen were the exceptions.
BMW qualified their position saying the fuel was not currently recommended, but confirmed it was undergoing tests, so their position could reviewed in the future. The local Mercedes dealer was most direct; "we've had an email about this; you must, must not use the fuel."
