Mazda and Nippon Express Test Biodiesel Fuel in Finished Vehicle Logistics Trial
Mazda and Nippon Express have launched a demonstration trial using biodiesel fuel (HVO) for finished vehicle transport trailers, aiming to reduce carbon emissions in logistics.
12 km
51%
What Happened
Mazda Motor Corporation and Nippon Express Co., Ltd. have launched a demonstration trial using biodiesel fuel (HVO) for finished vehicle transport trailers, starting in May 2026. The trial runs between Mazda's Hofu Nishinoura district plant and the Nakanoseki finished vehicle yard, a round trip of approximately 12 km, through the end of fiscal year 2026. The two companies will evaluate fuel efficiency, performance, and operational challenges, with the goal of exploring decarbonization in logistics. The biodiesel fuel is procured by NX Shoji Co., Ltd., and the trailers operate under conditions equivalent to conventional diesel, with cooperation from Isuzu Motors Limited.
“We consider it highly meaningful to work together with Nippon Express Co., Ltd. on this demonstration using HVO. By steadily accumulating insights on fuel efficiency, performance, and operational aspects through real-world operations, and by collaborating with regional partners, we will further promote the practical application and expansion of this initiative.”
12km
Round trip between Hofu plant and Nakanoseki yard
Why this matters
This trial explores how switching to biodiesel in vehicle logistics can help decarbonize the supply chain, a key step toward Mazda's goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
Terms in This Story
- HVO
- Hydrotreated vegetable oil, a renewable diesel fuel derived from waste cooking oil and vegetable oils.
- Carbon neutrality
- A state where net carbon dioxide emissions are zero, often achieved by balancing emissions with offsets or reductions.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.