B100 for JCB Excavators? Yes, They Can
JCB paved the way adopting the B100, a 100% renewable biodiesel fuel for use in a range of X Series tracked excavator models
JCB is going to introduce the use of B100 biodiesel in tracked excavators sold in Europe. B100 fuel, also known as fatty acid methyl ester (FAME), can be used in JCB models 140X, 145XR, 150X, 220X, and 245XR starting from June 2026 (models must be specifically ordered for this specification; the fuel cannot be used in standard machines). B100 contains no fossil-origin diesel and is produced from recycled vegetable oils through a process called transesterification.
The JCB Director of Product Innovation Explains the B100 Approach
Richard Brooks, the Group’s Director of Product Innovation, stated: “This fundamental milestone is a direct response to customer requests for excavator models capable of operating on B100. They now have a practical fuel option that offers real carbon emission savings and which, in the future, could be extended to other products in the JCB range, depending on demand. The use of B100 biodiesel complements JCB’s market-leading technologies for battery-electric propulsion and hydrogen combustion, offering customers an additional path for emission reduction and operational sustainability. Customers using machines with Syntech ASB B100 can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 93% compared to standard diesel, taking an immediate and significant step toward zero emissions without compromising performance.”
Many engine suppliers have only approved the use of B10 or B20 biodiesel—fuels composed of 10% or 20% biodiesel and 90% or 80% mineral diesel, respectively. JCB has conducted an extensive testing and validation program in collaboration with Syntech Biofuel to enable specially produced X-series excavators to run on Syntech ASB B100 fuel. The fuel complies with the BS EN 14214 standard and is certified according to the international ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) standard.
JCB will provide full warranty coverage for compliant B100 fuel when machines are equipped with a B100 package and supported by an advanced B100 service contract entered into with a JCB dealer. A simple conversion procedure also allows the engines to be reverted to conventional diesel operation, helping to preserve residual value and ensure suitability for the used machine market.
