DB Cargo Netherlands is the first Dutch rail transport company to start a trial with HVO as a sustainable alternative to conventional diesel

(Utrecht, 25.07.2023) Deutsche Bahn (DB) has set itself the ambitious goal of climate neutrality by 2040. As part of the DB group, DB Cargo Netherlands is actively involved in meeting the environmental targets. DB Cargo Netherlands is the first rail transport company in the Netherlands to use the climate-friendly biofuel HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oils) in one of its diesel locomotives. Compared to conventional diesel, the biofuel reduces CO₂e emissions by around 90% over the entire life cycle. In a six-month trial, the regenerative fuel is currently tested under real operating conditions on the railway lines to Eemshaven, Delfzijl and Veendam. The trial aims to ensure that the motor performance remains unaffected and to confirm the positive effects of HVO as an alternative to conventional fossil diesel.

State Secretary Vivianne Heijnen (Infrastructure and Water Management): "I think it is very good that DB Cargo is looking at cleaner alternatives to the old diesel locomotives. Electric trains cannot be driven or shunted everywhere and it is important for carriers to investigate what alternatives to fossil fuel are already possible, in the transition to emission-free solutions. Precisely innovations developed by the market are often practical and therefore offer great opportunities for sustainability. I am very curious about the results of the trial."

Rail transport is already one of the most environmentally friendly means of freight transport, as it causes 80 – 100 % less CO₂ emissions than road transport. In addition, one cargo train can replace up to 52 trucks and thus relieves the road infrastructure. Wherever possible, DB Cargo Netherlands uses electric locomotives with power from renewable energy sources, such as wind energy. However, Diesel engines are still needed in terminals, ports and at customers’ premises. For these areas, HVO promises to be a fossil-free, high-quality bridging technology until alternative drive technologies are made available.

About HVO

HVO stands for "Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil" and is one of the most sustainable biofuels available. Due to its similar properties, HVO can both be blended with fossil diesel fuel or used as a pure biofuel. HVO is made from waste vegetable oils and residual waste such as animal fats. This makes HVO a fully renewable, fossil-free and low-emission alternative to traditional diesel.

Apart from the above-mentioned CO₂-reduction, HVO also offers other positive side-effects such as the reduction of highly harmful nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons during the combustion process.

About DB Cargo Netherlands

We are the largest rail transport company in the Netherlands. We are part of DB Cargo AG, Europe's largest rail logistics service provider. Every day our trains connect Dutch seaports and industry with the European hinterland. We do so safely and sustainably.

Want to know more about HVO? Then read our 'white paper'.