Less is more … more technology!

The South African transport industry has been yearning for cleaner fuel as newer technology is available but not viable due to the diesel quality in our country … However, this has now changed. Enter Sasol turbodiesel ULS 10 parts per million (ppm).

The southern African divisions of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), especially those with European roots, have been eagerly awaiting “cleaner” diesel with less parts per million of sulphur so that they can import the latest vehicles that their parent companies have to offer.

Nicolette Lambrechts, brand manager of Mercedes-Benz Vans, points out: “Fuel quality remains a challenge for the motor industry. We have amazing products available, but, unfortunately, we’re not able to bring these into the market due to the fuel quality and the limitations this puts on our technology.”

And Mercedes-Benz South Africa isn’t the only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that feels this way – the entire industry has been lobbying for cleaner diesel … Thankfully Sasol has answered the call with the launch of its turbodiesel ULS 10 ppm, which complies with international sulphur and cetane requirements, in the South African market last month.

According to the company, the new diesel has advanced cleaning and lubricating properties to keep engines and fuel injection systems clean and well protected. It will also produce less harmful exhaust emissions and allow vehicles with the latest technology and exhaust after-treatment devices to operate freely.

“We are continuously looking for ways to enhance our products to enable vehicles featuring the latest technology to be introduced in South Africa and ultimately benefit the general consumer,” Mohamed Carrim, retail manager at Sasol Oil, points out. “It is indeed a huge milestone for Sasol and South Africa.”

He adds that Sasol turbodiesel ULS 10 ppm is suitable for all diesel vehicles, from older generation models to those with the latest technology – with or without turbocharging.

“A key part of the new fuel is its advanced detergency. This prevents or removes deposit build-up in the engine and fuel system, allowing the engine to operate at optimum efficiency and sustain optimum fuel consumption over time. Continued use will maintain new fuel systems as well as clean up dirty ones.”

The new 10 ppm turbodiesel is available at 78 forecourts in Gauteng and Mpumalanga, with the product selectively being rolled-out to other areas in 2014 and 2015.