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07/06/2007
Virgin launch biodiesel train
The first train to run on biodiesel is being launched by the Virgin rail network.
It is understood that one of the firm's Voyager trains has been modified in order to use the environmentally friendly fuel, which will reduce CO2 emissions.
The fuel is 20% biodiesel, a fuel which is made from biological sources such as vegetable oils.
It is biodegradable and produces less CO2 than conventional diesel fuel.
If the train proves to be successful, Virgin plans to convert its entire Voyager fleet to run on biodiesel fuel, which the company says could reduce their emissions by 14%.
Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson said that the move was a "pioneering step" and said: "This means 34,500 tonnes less CO2 being emitted into the atmosphere each year, and is equivalent to taking 23,000 cars off the road."
Speaking ahead of the launch, Prime Minister-in-waiting Gordon Brown, who will be attending, said: "I want Britain to be a world leader in the development and use of environmentally-friendly fuels.
"I believe they will play a fundamental part in our efforts to reduce emissions and tackle climate change."
(KMcA/JM)
It is understood that one of the firm's Voyager trains has been modified in order to use the environmentally friendly fuel, which will reduce CO2 emissions.
The fuel is 20% biodiesel, a fuel which is made from biological sources such as vegetable oils.
It is biodegradable and produces less CO2 than conventional diesel fuel.
If the train proves to be successful, Virgin plans to convert its entire Voyager fleet to run on biodiesel fuel, which the company says could reduce their emissions by 14%.
Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson said that the move was a "pioneering step" and said: "This means 34,500 tonnes less CO2 being emitted into the atmosphere each year, and is equivalent to taking 23,000 cars off the road."
Speaking ahead of the launch, Prime Minister-in-waiting Gordon Brown, who will be attending, said: "I want Britain to be a world leader in the development and use of environmentally-friendly fuels.
"I believe they will play a fundamental part in our efforts to reduce emissions and tackle climate change."
(KMcA/JM)
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