CV Focus episode 3 - Phil Moon

While electric is starting to take over in urban deliveries, diesel still has a long-term future in heavy trucks, so what are the policy levers that government can pull to make it even greener?

One that is simple to implement, requires no infrastructure investment and can be used today is (HVO) hydrotreated vegetable oil, hears CV Focus presenter Matt Eisenegger.

Very environmentally friendly, HVO is a form of solar power (via plants) and all from truly sustainable products. Crucially, it’s not plants specifically grown for fuel.

Compatible in all diesel engines, even older ones without modification, HVO has an immediate effect cleaning up emissions.

It can be mixed with mineral diesel, so there’s no need for separate tanks in your depot or vehicles. There is no detriment to fuel economy; in urban operation HVO can slightly improve it.

There are clear advantages for operators, the UK economy, climate and clean air.  So what’s the catch?

As DAF Trucks Marketing Manager Phil Moon explains, it’s all down to the government to make it more popular.

A vehicle engineering specialist, having completed a degree in Automotive Engineering & Design at Loughborough University, Phil Moon initially worked in truck operations before joining Foden (like DAF, Paccar-owned).

There he developed an in-depth understanding of vehicle engineering and then applied it to future vehicle design by moving into a product marketing role, moving across to DAF in 2005.

As a result, he’s able to explain to us in clear terms everything an operator needs to know about HVO. 

He also talks about the next developments in diesel engine technology, required by law to take effect in five and 10 years’ time, that will cut emissions and fuel consumption.