Audi has developed two new e-fuels using different waste materials.
The German manufacturer has buddied up with US-based fuels specialist Joule to produce e-ethanol and e-diesel.
These combine salt or waste water with waste CO2, sunlight and special genetically modified microorganisms suspended in pipes.
Audi says its e-ethanol can power petrol vehicles with only minor modification. It is already being produced by facility in New Mexico.
The e-diesel, which is set to go into production shortly, is capable of powering Audi TDI clean diesel models with no modification.
A statement from Audi reads: “The unparalleled global viability of these new fuels lies not only in the exceptionally simple and relatively inexpensive process which creates them, but also in the fact that the ‘feedstock’ used to produce them is entirely renewable.
“The crop-based biomass that has traditionally been a key constituent of synthetic fuels, and that could often otherwise be used for human consumption, is not required here.
“This has the added advantage of removing the need to locate the fuel production facility near habitable or arable land – a remote desert facility is entirely feasible.”
John has been writing about cars since the start of 2011, with a particular fondness for models with USB connectivity and a serious distaste for steering wheels with too many buttons. Can often be found trying to seduce 1.0-litre engines. When away from things that go brum, apostrophe snob John can often be found making noise with varying degrees of musicality.
John Simpson
October 03, 2012
Filed under: Audi
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