FT.DODGE, IA – The preliminary results of a 2-million mile road test of biodiesel fuel show positive benefits for Decker Truck Line Inc., according to the Web site http://wallacesfarmer.com. The Fort Dodge-based firm is the first major trucking company to compare a B-20 soy biodiesel blend to conventional diesel fuel. The “Two Million Mile Haul” has covered 350,000 miles toward its goal.

A B-20 biodiesel (blend of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel) is being used in 20 company trucks that travel from Decker’s Fort Dodge terminal to either Chicago or Minneapolis. All trucks have Caterpillar engines built to EPA 2004 and 2007 emissions levels.

Caterpillar is also following the results of the study and is conducting further analysis on the effects of biodiesel on engine performance. Results of the road test can be monitored at www.2millionmilehaul.com. Partnering with Decker are the Renewable Energy Group, Iowa Soybean Association, National Biodiesel Board, USDA, and Iowa Central Community College at Ft. Dodge. The school is collecting and helping to analyze the data. In late-March, a major engine manufacturer, Cummins Inc., granted approval for the use of a 20 percent biodiesel blend (B-20) in its engines. This endorsement includes 2002 and later emissions-compliant engines (ISX, ISM, ISL, ISC, and ISB engines), including Cummins newest 2007 engines.

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