John Deere expands biodiesel compatibility with Tier 4 engines

John Deere has approved the use of B30 biodiesel blends in all Tier 4 John Deere Power Systems engines, a move expected to increase demand for biodiesel and renewable fuels in Michigan and across the country. The approval extends to Tier 4 engines in both agricultural and construction equipment, raising the previous limit from B20.

Biodiesel is made from renewable sources such as soybean oil, used cooking oil, and other fats and oils. B30 combines 30% biodiesel with 70% petroleum diesel, providing an additional market for Michigan-grown soybeans.

“Biodiesel is an ideal fuel choice for farm equipment because it is made from crops grown right here on our farms,” said Mark Senk, Owosso, Michigan, farmer and president of the Michigan Soybean Committee.

Tier 4 engines already incorporate advanced aftertreatment systems to cut particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. Using B30 can further reduce hydrocarbons and greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Michigan Advanced Biofuels Coalition (MiABC).

“Allowing use of B30 biodiesel fuel in John Deere equipment is good news for Michigan farmers and Michigan’s rural communities, especially as we head into the fall harvest season,” said Hanna Campbell, managing director of MiABC and market development director for the Michigan Soybean Committee. “Fueling tractors and combines with B30 leads to smoother engine operations and fewer carbon emissions for a cleaner, healthier environment.”

John Deere also previously approved RD100 renewable diesel in Tier 4 engines and biodiesel blends up to B100 in Tier 3 and Tier 2 engines.

“At John Deere, we're committed to supporting and growing the use of renewable fuels in our equipment,” said Pierre Guyot, senior vice president of John Deere Power Systems.  "We believe strongly in the role that renewable fuels play in supporting the agriculture economy and are excited to offer our customers – including those who grow the very crops used to make renewable fuels – the opportunity to leverage higher blends of fuels like biodiesel in their own equipment."