100% renewable biodiesel fuel approved for use in X Series tracked excavators

The fuel, which is also known as Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME), is derived entirely from renewable biological sources and it can be used in newly manufactured JCB 140X, 145XR, 150X, 220X and 245XR models from June 2026. It contains no fossil diesel and is made from recycled vegetable oils, through a process called transesterification.

Group product innovation director Richard Brooks said: 'This milestone development is in direct response to major contractors asking for excavators capable of running on B100. They now have a practical fuel option that delivers genuine carbon savings and one that, in the future, could be extended to other products in JCB’s range, depending on demand.

'The use of B100 biodiesel complements JCB’s market-leading battery electric and hydrogen combustion technologies as alternatives to conventional diesel power, providing customers with another route to carbon reduction and sustainable operation. Customers operating machines with Syntech ASB B100 can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 93% compared with standard diesel, delivering an immediate and significant step towards net zero without compromising performance.'

Many engine suppliers have approved only the use of B10 or B20 biodiesel, fuels that are 10% or 20% biodiesel and 90% or 80% mineral diesel, respectively.

JCB have conducted an extensive test and validation programme in conjunction with Syntech Biofuel to allow X Series excavators to be operated with Syntech ASB B100 fuel. The fuel complies with BS EN 14214 and is certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) standard.

JCB offer full warranty coverage for compliant B100 fuel when machines are equipped with a B100 pack and supported by a JCB dealer B100 enhanced service contract. A simple conversion process also allows engines to revert to conventional diesel operation, helping to protect residual values and ensuring suitability for the used machinery market.