A new fuel is arriving at French service stations: XTL diesel. This biofuel is less polluting and makes the engine less “noisy”… but it is also more expensive.
“XTL”: perhaps you saw these three letters when going to refuel in France. A new fuel also called HVO100.
This is a synthetic diesel fuel. Its name, XTL, means “X to Liquid”, an acronym where the “X” can designate different raw materials used for its manufacture, which are all foreign to oilsuch as natural gas (GTL), biomass, other sources of plastic waste or even vegetable oils.
It can also be manufactured via the hydrogenation (addition of a dihydrogen molecule) of vegetable oils: it is then called HVO or HVO 100pour Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil.
Since October 1, 2024, the distribution of this biofuel has been authorized for the general public and no longer reserved “for professional fleets”. But its deployment will require investments (new tank, etc.). The first XTL diesel pump should open before the end of 2024 in the Alpes-Maritimes. The XTL has already been distributed for several years in certain European countries (Belgium, Finland…) and since May in Germany.
What is the point of this new fuel?
According to the consumer association UFC-Que Choisir, XTL diesel makes it possible to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional diesel. Another advantage announced, this biofuel limits combustion noisewhich would make the engine “quieter“.
Is it compatible with all diesel vehicles?
No. The distribution of XTL is very regulated: the decree of July 2, 2024 published in the Official Journal mentions all types of vehicles which can consume this diesel. For example, vehicles Renault “meeting Euro 6 emissions standards are compatible“. Likewise, for BMW“all Diesel vehicles marketed from 2000 are compatible“. On the other hand, at Mercedes-Benz for example, only models displaying the XTL marking on the tank are eligible. Recommendations vary considerably depending on the manufacturer, so it is strongly recommended to consult the user manual for your vehicle. Find the complete list of compatible vehicles here.
Note that it is possible to mix in your tank the XTL with traditional diesel, “in any proportion“, adds UFC Que-choisir.
How much does it cost?
More expensive! “Its price per liter should be around 2 euros” says Europe 1. La Voix du Nord specifies for its part that in Germany and Belgium, where it is already sold, “it is close to 2.50 euros per liter”.
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