Torrance, Calif.-based Kubota Tractor Corp. last week announced a global Kubota decision to approve the use of B5 biodiesel fuels in specified Kubota diesel-powered products. Biodiesel fuels, most often offered in a blended-petroleum format, are derived from vegetable oils such as soybean and are offered in the United States as an alternative source for energy. The approved blends of biodiesel fuel for use in Kubota diesel-powered products range up to a B5 blend that consists of 5 percent biodiesel and 95 percent petroleum diesel.

“Kubota is committed to environmentally sound practices and the support of renewable, agriculturally based products used in fuels — as we continually work at increasing energy efficiencies within our industry,” says Tetsuji “Mike” Tomita, president, Kubota Tractor Corp. “Kubota believes strongly in the efficiency and high performance of the diesel engine and approves the use of B5 biodiesel fuels.

Kubota has tested and approved the use of American B5 biodiesel fuel as a blend component that meets the minimum requirements provided by the American Society of Testing and Materials, Standard ASTM D6751 specifications. The petroleum diesel fuel base must meet ASTM D975 specification. To ensure quality, biodiesel fuels or blended fuel should be purchased from a BQ-9000 accredited producer.

For a complete list of current Kubota model tractors approved for B5 biodiesel fuel usage, contact your local dealer.

Kubota Tractor Corp., is the U.S. marketer and distributor of Kubota-branded equipment, including a complete line of tractors up to 103 PTO hp, performance-matched implements, compact construction equipment, consumer lawn and garden equipment, commercial turf products and utility vehicles.