Updated AGQM List Approves Higher Biodiesel Use in Commercial Vehicles

The Association Quality Management Biodiesel (AGQM) has released an updated approval list showing which commercial vehicles can safely operate with higher biodiesel blends. The list includes trucks, buses, tractors, and construction vehicles, enabling operators to use B20, B30, or even pure B100 biodiesel without engine or performance issues. The compilation draws on data from 20 vehicle and engine manufacturers and is publicly available on the AGQM website.

Published in collaboration with international bodies, including the European Biodiesel Board (EBB) and the European Waste-based & Advanced Biofuels Association (EWABA), the list provides crucial guidance for fleet operators seeking to adopt more sustainable fuel options. AGQM also maintains a rigorous quality assurance system, conducting regular unannounced sampling at member sites, manufacturers, and storage operators to ensure the integrity of biodiesel.

Vehicle Compatibility and Engine Assurance

B20, B30, and B100 Ready

According to Katharina Friedrich, manager of AGQM, vehicles approved on the list can operate with higher biodiesel blends safely. “The AGQM’s B100 commercial vehicle standard ensures the use of pure biodiesel in modern engines and exhaust aftertreatment systems,” she said. Operators can adopt biodiesel without concerns over engine damage or warranty issues, making a smooth transition to greener fuels.

Diesel Engines Still Predominant

Despite increasing interest in alternative fuels, diesel engines remain dominant in Europe’s commercial sector. About six million trucks on European roads are diesel-powered, consuming roughly 100 billion litres of fuel annually. With service lifespans ranging from 15 to 20 years, these vehicles will remain a key part of the fleet even as electric and hybrid options expand.

Industry Leaders Support Higher Blends

EWABA Secretary General Angel Alvarez Alberdi highlighted the potential of higher biodiesel blends to reduce emissions in transport, construction, and agriculture sectors. “Blends ranging from B20 to B100 could significantly lower exhaust emissions in diesel-dominated commercial vehicles,” he noted. Xavier Noyon, Secretary General of EBB, added that the approval list is vital for FAME producers and operators alike, confirming which engines can use higher blends without modification and helping fleets cut greenhouse gas emissions effectively.

Promoting Sustainable Fuel Adoption

The updated AGQM list is expected to accelerate the adoption of advanced biodiesel blends across Europe’s commercial vehicle sector. By providing clear guidance, ensuring fuel quality, and coordinating with manufacturers, the initiative supports both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. Operators can now confidently plan their fuel strategies, while regulators and producers benefit from a more structured transition toward greener transportation.