Škoda Ireland and Certa Launch Campaign to Promote HVO Biofuel as a Cleaner Alternative to Diesel
Škoda Ireland and Certa have joined forces to spearhead a new campaign aimed at driving awareness and adoption of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) biofuel as a cleaner alternative to diesel for motorists in Ireland. The collaborative initiative seeks to encourage both current diesel car owners and potential buyers to consider switching to HVO, which can significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with motoring.
HVO, a second-generation low-carbon biofuel derived from waste plant matter and hydrogen, offers a promising solution to mitigate the environmental impact of diesel vehicles. It serves as a direct replacement for conventional diesel, requiring no modifications to vehicle engines. Notably, HVO boasts a remarkable potential to lower CO2 emissions by up to 90%, marking a substantial leap towards sustainability in the transportation sector.
As part of this pioneering campaign, Škoda is incentivising the transition by offering diesel Škoda model buyers with Certa HVO biofuel vouchers worth either €250 or €500, depending on the model purchased. This promotional offer, applicable to purchases made in March, aims to further motivate consumers to embrace HVO as a viable fuel option.
Certa, one of Ireland's leading fuel suppliers and part of DCC plc, is actively expanding the availability of HVO across its network of forecourts. The company has announced plans to introduce new HVO pumps at additional locations throughout the country, with the aim of making this eco-friendly fuel more accessible to motorists. Currently, three Certa forecourts offer HVO, with plans to expand this number to ten by the end of the year.
One of the key advantages of HVO is its versatility, as it can be used as a direct replacement for diesel in various vehicles, including fleet, plant, machinery equipment, and passenger cars. Moreover, HVO's compatibility with existing diesel engines ensures that performance remains virtually unchanged, providing a seamless transition for motorists.
With the impending phase-out of diesel and petrol-powered cars by 2035, Škoda recognises electric vehicles (EVs) as the ultimate sustainable solution for future mobility. However, acknowledging the current preference for diesel models among consumers, the brand advocates for HVO as a transitional fuel, aligning with national decarbonisation efforts.
John Donegan, Brand Director at Škoda Ireland, emphasised the importance of raising awareness about the benefits of HVO among diesel car owners and prospective buyers. He highlighted the role of Škoda's promotional campaign in informing motorists about the advantages of transitioning to HVO, thereby contributing to a greener automotive landscape.
Andrew Graham, Managing Director of Certa, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the ease of transitioning to HVO and its significant environmental benefits. He emphasised Certa's commitment to expanding the availability of HVO and ensuring price parity with diesel, making it an attractive and accessible option for motorists.
As the campaign gains momentum, both Škoda and Certa are optimistic about driving widespread adoption of HVO biofuel, paving the way for a more sustainable future in transportation. By harnessing the power of collaboration and innovation, this initiative sets a compelling example for the automotive industry's transition towards cleaner, greener alternatives.