Diesel fuel plays a vital role in powering industries, transport, and machinery worldwide. While it might seem like a uniform product, diesel fuel comes in different types designed to suit various applications and environmental conditions. Understanding these differences can help businesses optimise their fuel choices, improve performance, and reduce costs.
Type 1 Diesel (D1)
Type 1 diesel, or D1, is a lighter fuel commonly used in colder climates due to its lower viscosity and improved performance in cold weather. It is particularly effective for smaller engines and applications requiring quick ignition, such as light-duty trucks and some industrial equipment. While it provides excellent cold-weather performance, its energy content is slightly lower than other diesel types, which can affect fuel efficiency in some cases.
Type 2 Diesel (D2)
Type 2 diesel, also known as D2, is the standard diesel fuel used in most vehicles and heavy machinery. Known for its high energy content and efficiency, D2 performs well in a wide range of temperatures, making it ideal for year-round use in moderate climates. This type of diesel is widely available and offers the best balance between performance and cost for most users.
Off-Road Diesel
Off-road diesel is specifically dyed red to distinguish it from on-road diesel. This type is commonly used in non-road applications such as farming equipment, construction machinery, and generators. Off-road diesel is taxed differently, offering cost savings for businesses operating in agriculture and industry. However, it is illegal to use off-road diesel in on-road vehicles.
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a renewable alternative to traditional diesel fuel, made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil. It can be blended with conventional diesel in various proportions, such as B5 (5% biodiesel) or B20 (20% biodiesel). Biodiesel is valued for its lower environmental impact, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and ability to improve engine lubrication. Businesses seeking sustainable solutions may find biodiesel an appealing choice, particularly when supported by programs like Procurement Australia’s bulk fuels solutions.
Renewable Diesel
Similar to biodiesel, renewable diesel is made from renewable resources. However, it is chemically identical to traditional diesel, allowing it to be used interchangeably without modifications to engines. Renewable diesel offers a cleaner-burning alternative while maintaining the same performance and efficiency as fossil-based diesel.
Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD)
Ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) is the standard diesel fuel used today, containing significantly reduced sulfur levels to minimise environmental pollution. It is compatible with modern diesel engines and required for vehicles equipped with advanced emission control systems. The reduced sulfur content helps protect engine components and ensures compliance with stringent environmental regulations.
If your organisation needs large volumes of fuel, we offer tailored bulk fuel solutions to meet diverse needs—and our OneCard program simplifies retail fuel management, offering convenience and control for fleet operations.
Procurement Australia’s expertise in fuel solutions ensures you get the right type of diesel to optimise your operations. To learn more about how we can help, get in touch with our team now.