What are the best vehicles to use with biodiesel?
We recommend vehicles with in-line diesel engines as opposed to vehicles with V-6, V-8, or opposed cylinder designs. If you can find an vehicle with an in-line diesel and a turbocharger, that’s even better. The small surface area of main bearings and short throw distance of rods in non in-line diesel engines limit their ability to take advantage of the diesel’s efficiency and power. In the US, we recommend Dodge trucks with Cummins engines, Volkswagen vehicles with TDI engines, and the Mercedes Sprinter van with Mercedes TDI engine (this is sold through Freightliner http://www.freightliner.com). If you are buying a used vehicle, by far the best value for the money is a Mercedes car or station wagon. (A used Volkswagen TDI vehicle is also an excellent choice – but difficult to find).
Notes from the Veggie Van FAQ: We recommend vehicles with in-line diesel engines as opposed to vehicles with V-6, V-8, or opposed cylinder designs. If you can find an vehicle with an in-line diesel and a turbocharger, that’s even better. The small surface area of main bearings and short throw distance of rods in non in-line diesel engines limit their ability to take advantage of the diesel’s efficiency and power. In the US, we recommend Dodge trucks with Cummins engines, Volkswagen vehicles with TDI engines, and the Mercedes Sprinter van with Mercedes TDI engine (this is sold through Freightliner http://www.freightliner.com). If you are buying a used vehicle, by far the best value for the money is a Mercedes car or station wagon. (A used Volkswagen TDI vehicle is also an excellent choice – but difficult to find).
