Bio-fuelled Hyundai proves to be a good mixer

Hyundai diesels such as the new Santa Fe can take 5 per cent bio-fuel. Picture / Colin Smith

In a New Zealand first, the majority of Hyundai's petrol-powered demonstrator fleet is now fuelled by an ethanol blend of bio-fuel.

The 10 per cent ethanol blend has been available for some time in Hyundai's Auckland fleet - mostly used by motoring writers - and is now available in Wellington and Christchurch.

The benefits of ethanol blend fuel can now be more fully appreciated, says Hyundai managing director Philip Eustace.

Bio-ethanol blended fuel reduces overall carbon dioxide emissions while also having a higher octane rating than straight 91 octane petrol.

Hyundai New Zealand is promoting bio-fuels as a readily available, economic alternative as the world grapples with ever-increasing fuel costs and uncertain refinery capacity.

Current Hyundai diesels can also take a 5 per cent bio-fuel blend, including the new four-wheel-drive Hyundai Santa Fe.

Bio-diesel blended fuel has lower particulate emissions, lower greenhouse causing carbon dioxide emissions and improved fuel lubrication in engine systems, says Hyundai.

Being non-toxic, it is biodegradable and the breakdown of blended diesel is sped up in a spill.

Hyundai has won national recognition for its efforts in promoting ethanol blended fuels, winning the 2006 AA Environmental Award last year. Hyundai's E10 capability is three times greater than guidelines likely to be set at 3 per cent.

The greening of the Hyundai fleet has also been reflected in overseas awards, with the Hyundai Accent being recognised as one of the greenest vehicles of 2006 by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.

The council placed the Accent alongside other renowned green vehicles, predominantly hybrids, including the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic Hybrid.

Says Eustace: "Given that high fuel prices look here to stay, it is imperative the Government follows Hyundai's lead and begins exploring sustainable, affordable initiatives to alternative fuels."