HVO100 introduced for vehicle delivery to reduce emissions

Magirus has announced that firefighting vehicles it delivers will now be initially refuelled with HVO100, where approved by the chassis manufacturer.

The company confirmed that the change is effective immediately and applies to both new and existing vehicles with manufacturer approval.

HVO100 (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is a synthetic diesel substitute derived mainly from waste oils and fats from the food industry.

The fuel has been legal since 2024 and is recognised for its lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced air pollutants.

Engine compatibility and operational advantages

According to Magirus, HVO100 results in cleaner engine performance and is suitable for operation in cold conditions.

Thomas Hilse, CEO of Magirus, said: “The synthetic fuel also keeps engines clean for longer.

“These factors make HVO100 an ideal choice for use in fire engines, which often have to operate under extreme conditions.”

The company noted that many diesel engine manufacturers have approved the use of HVO100 and recommended checking vehicle-specific approval through authorised workshops or online sources such as Mobil in Deutschland e.V.

Environmental and operational motivations behind the switch

Magirus stated that the transition supports its goal of reducing emissions in emergency services operations.

Marc Kuntz, Director Sales and Customer Service at Magirus, said: “With the use of HVO100, Magirus is already pursuing the goal of making a sustainable contribution to environmental protection and making firefighting operations as emission-free as possible.”

Hilse added: “The decision to use HVO100 as the standard fuel for initial refuelling demonstrates Magirus’ commitment to promoting innovative and sustainable technologies and underlines its commitment to environmentally friendly solutions in firefighting.”

Considerations on battery-powered alternatives

Magirus addressed questions around battery-electric emergency vehicles, noting the higher procurement costs and shorter battery lifespan.

The company highlighted that availability risks for high-voltage batteries currently impact the feasibility of electric vehicles in this sector.

It added that the use of HVO100 does not affect the procurement costs of combustion-engine vehicles, presenting a lower-cost alternative to electric options.

Magirus firefighting vehicles now delivered with HVO100 fuel: Summary

Magirus has begun initial refuelling of its firefighting vehicles with HVO100, a synthetic fuel made from waste vegetable and animal oils.

This applies to vehicles with binding approval from their chassis manufacturers.

HVO100 produces fewer greenhouse gases and air pollutants than conventional diesel and offers benefits including improved combustion and cold-start reliability.

The company said HVO100 is compatible with most modern diesel engines.

Customers are advised to check compatibility through certified workshops or the Mobil in Deutschland e.V. website.

Magirus said the decision aligns with its environmental goals and provides a practical alternative while battery-powered emergency vehicles remain costlier and less reliable due to battery lifespan and supply issues.