Zero-m, a UK-based clean fuels development company, reports that the UK Governme ...

Zero-m, a UK-based clean fuels development company, reports that the UK Government is supporting its pilot project to demonstrate the benefits and uses of methanol as a cleaner alternative to current motor fuels. Through its Green Fuel Challenge initiative, the government has granted the company fuel duty relief, enabling it to begin a cost-effective, step-by-step research programme to test its methanol-based fuel as a feasible commercial alternative for road vehicles in the future. The pilot project is designed to demonstrate that: · Methanol-based fuels can be very clean and safe substitutes for diesel fuel. · A safe and practical methanol-based fuelling infrastructure can be established in the UK. · Methanol-based fuels can be made from renewable energy sources in the longer term. The company plans to develop affordable retrofit engine conversions for a range of older diesel engines, to convert several fleets of older taxis, vans and trucks, as well as measure the improvement in emissions, engine efficiency and performance resulting from the use of methanol-based fuels. It is also to involve car manufacturers in the potential for developing new methanol capable engines, develop innovative methanol refuelling systems, and help the government make decisions on the long-term duty status of methanol-based fuels. Initially fleet customers will be sought for engine conversion and fuel supply in London and the Home Counties. Engine conversions are slated to begin in spring 2002.