In a bold and timely move that aligns with global sustainability goals, Škoda Auto has officially transitioned to hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) biofuel for all newly manufactured diesel vehicles and its internal logistics fleet. Announced on Earth Day, this strategic change underscores Škoda’s dedication to carbon-neutral production by 2030 and strengthens its leadership in eco-conscious automotive practices.
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What Is HVO and Why It’s a Game-Changer for Diesel Engines
Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) is a next-generation synthetic diesel created through the hydrogenation of waste-derived oils and fats, such as used cooking oil and animal fats. Unlike traditional biodiesel, HVO does not rely on food crops, making it a sustainable and responsible alternative to fossil-based diesel.
HVO’s unique benefits include:
- Significantly lower carbon footprint—up to 90% less net CO₂ emissions
- Higher cetane number (70 vs. 51)—resulting in improved combustion and fewer pollutants
- Sulphur-free and aromatic-free—leading to cleaner engine performance
- Near odorless and clear appearance
- Can be used pure or blended with conventional diesel
- Better compatibility with older diesel engines, often enhancing performance and smoothness
This makes HVO not only better for the environment but also superior in performance and engine longevity.
How Škoda Is Using HVO Across Production and Logistics
Škoda Auto’s use of HVO is twofold:
- All new Škoda diesel vehicles produced in the Czech Republic now come with an initial fill of HVO biofuel.
- Škoda’s logistics trucks operating within its production plants are also running on HVO.
The HVO fuel is sourced from ČEPRO, the Czech Republic’s state-owned distributor, ensuring supply reliability and national energy security.
Škoda is currently the first Volkswagen Group brand to roll out HVO implementation at scale—using approximately 46,000 liters of HVO in logistics vehicles between August and December 2024, preventing an estimated 300 tonnes of CO₂ emissions during that time alone.
Škoda Diesel Models Built from 2022 Onward Are HVO-Ready
Škoda has proactively designed its entire diesel lineup from 2022 onward to be HVO-compatible. Drivers can identify these models by the “XTL” label on the fuel cap, indicating approval for synthetic diesel like HVO.
For owners of older diesel models, Škoda recommends checking with authorized dealers to confirm compatibility before refueling with HVO blends.
A Broader Green Strategy: Škoda’s Commitment to Climate Neutrality
HVO integration is just one pillar of Škoda Auto’s broader decarbonization roadmap. The company aims for carbon-neutral production across all Czech and Indian manufacturing sites by 2030.
Key milestones include:
- The Vrchlabí plant reached carbon neutrality in 2020.
- A major overhaul is underway at Mladá Boleslav, where Škoda is converting its heating plant to biomass—an effort projected to cut 290,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Karsten Schnake, Škoda Board Member for Procurement and Sustainability, emphasized that HVO’s use in production and logistics demonstrates how real-world, high-impact sustainability initiatives can be implemented without requiring massive infrastructure changes.
Setting a New Industry Benchmark for Clean Diesel Mobility
Škoda’s decisive move to adopt HVO sends a powerful message to the global auto industry: sustainability can be achieved now, not just through future EV developments but via innovative applications of existing technology.
By making use of waste-derived fuel, the company supports:
- Circular economy principles
- Energy diversification
- Reduced reliance on fossil resources
Škoda is proving that climate-forward innovation and practical implementation can go hand-in-hand—paving the way for other automakers to follow suit.
Conclusion: A Cleaner Road Ahead Starts with Bold Decisions Today
Škoda’s transition to HVO in all new diesel models marks a significant milestone in automotive sustainability. It not only demonstrates environmental leadership but also offers a tangible, scalable path for reducing emissions across the entire industry.
By leveraging waste to power progress, Škoda shows that farewell to fossil diesel doesn’t mean farewell to diesel altogether—it means welcoming a cleaner, smarter era of mobility.
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