Mazda to trial biodiesel fuel in Japan with potential to feature in popular models like Mazda BT-50 ute and rival BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid

Mazda has taken more steps away from electric cars, announcing a trial for its biodiesel fuel in Japan, and it could be a game-changer in Australia.

Biodiesel is considered a renewable fuel made up of vegetable and used cooking oils, among other organic materials.

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It will be conducted between the brand’s Hofu, Nishinoura district plant and Nakanoseki finished vehicle yard - a distance of 12km.

It will assess fuel efficiency, performance and operational challenges to collect insights with a view to further expansion. 

The transport trailers used in the trial will operate under conditions equivalent to conventional diesel fuel, which includes maintenance and inspection practices. 

Mazda is already considering the logistics of a full integration for the fuel system, working with distributors in Japan to develop supply systems and infrastructure. 

It said it is aiming to achieve carbon neutrality across its range by 2050, with these plans coming at an important time for the brand in Australia.

The brand finds itself behind in the electrified vehicle race, which has seen it on the cusp of copping substantial emissions-related fines.

It has sought to rectify this with the introduction of the fully-electric Mazda 6e sedan and Mazda CX-6e SUV Down Under.

This biodiesel fuel push is further evidence of Mazda's recent venture into non-EV clean emissions alternatives.

It recently confirmed the push back of its own electric car plans in favour of hybrids.

It is too early to tell whether biodiesel will become an established part of Mazda's lineup, but a trial shows there is potential.

Mazda Australia has been contacted for comment to see if there are any plans for biodiesel technology to be introduced and what impact this could have on EVs. 

Mazda currently offers diesel set-ups in some of its bigger SUVs such as the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90, as well as the BT-50 ute. 

A fully-integrated biodiesel-powered BT-50 could give Mazda the edge over conventional diesel rivals. 

These diesel powerhouses have experienced challenges in maintaining towing and carrying capacities with cleaner set-ups.

Ford recently announced its Ranger utes have biodiesel capacity, including a fleet of units that run on this fuel at Melbourne Airport. 

The Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid has had a tepid sales response with its lesser payload, while the incoming Hilux EV will only have a driving range of less than 300km