Meeting the Need
By the Numbers:
- 500
- PPM (parts-per-million) maximum count of sulfur in Low Sulfur Diesel(source: Auto Alliance)
Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel
Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) is a cleaner-burning diesel fuel with 15 ppm (parts-per-million) or less sulfur, that can be used in both old and new diesel vehicles. Diesel engines typically have greater fuel efficiency than gasoline engines, but have historically produced greater emissions. However, when ULSD is used in 2007 model year and newer diesel engines equipped with improved injection systems, exhaust after-treatment devices and diesel particulate filters, ULSD can help cut particulate emissions by as much as 90% and also reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx). The result: cleaner air.
On the Road
AC Transit has been using California ULSD in all its diesel vehicles since 2002, well ahead of the state regulatory requirement.
ULSD is available at retail gas stations as well. In fact, the state of California now requires all vehicular diesel sold to be ULSD. Eighty to ninety percent of the highway diesel sold in states outside California is currently ULSD. By 2010, all highway diesel sold in the U.S. is mandated to be ULSD.
Look for the ULSD Label
If you purchase a new diesel-powered car or truck that requires ULSD, it cannot run on anything but ULSD. Using non-ULSD (higher sulfur diesel) in such a vehicle can damage its emissions control system and require costly repairs. If you live outside California, always check the labels on the diesel pump to ensure you are getting ULSD. If you are unsure of whether or not your car requires ULSD, check your owner‘s manual.
For more details on ULSD, check out our Frequently Asked Questions and our Press Releases, Research, and Resources page — or Contact an Expert.
