A new Freightliner service made its inaugural journey from Southampton to Crewe using entirely Ocean Network Express (ONE) funded GD+ green biofuel.
The train continued its journey to Freightliner Coatbridge terminal, Scotland, using an electric locomotive, making this one of the greenest rail freight routes in UK rail.
GD+ is a type of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and can be used as a diesel replacement.
GD+ generates significantly lower Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO₂e) emissions compared to diesel.
This drop-in fuel is made entirely from waste and residue oils and is defined as renewable, environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and sustainable.
Its supply chain is traceable and independently verified, a prerequisite for both organisations.
Apart from the significant CO₂e savings, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and methane (CH4) are also reduced.
The train’s CO2e emission savings during its 700 kilometre journey was approximately 80 per cent, with 70 per cent of emissions avoided by utilising electricity and 92 per cent reduced by running on GD+ when compared to diesel.
This move comes after the ONE Trust container ship was the first to be equipped with a revolutionary wind deflector, aimed to improve the ship’s aerodynamics and reduce the ship’s fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
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“As a global carrier, we aim to be the link between customer and supplier to accelerate the transition towards a fully green supply chain,” said Director of the Ocean Network Express UK Agency, Simon Parsons.
“Our long-term relationship with Freightliner has enabled us to align our green ambitions and act swiftly to support the logistical needs of our customers between Scotland and Southampton.”
