Volkswagen Partners With Amyris and Solazyme to Promote Automotive use of Renewable Fuels

Volkswagen of America today announced partnerships with Solazyme SZYM and Amyris AMRS to evaluate emissions reductions and demonstrate the performance of TDI® Clean Diesel technology when powered by advanced biodiesel and renewable diesel fuel. Under the respective agreements, Volkswagen will provide both companies with two products each—the new 2012 Passat TDI and 2012 Jetta TDI—in order to closely examine the effects that the fuels produced by Amyris and Solazyme will have on Volkswagen clean diesel technology and the environment. (Amyris converts plant-sourced sugars into renewable hydrocarbons for fuel and chemical applications; Solazyme has developed a technology that harnesses the oil-producing ability of microalgae to develop renewable oil products.) The 12-month evaluation period will equip Volkswagen engineers with valuable data that will aid in the ongoing enhancement of TDI Clean Diesel technology and help the brand to develop more efficient, cleaner burning diesel powertrains for future products. "Partnering with two leaders in advanced biofuel technology supports Volkswagen's goal of offering a competitive suite of technologies that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve fuel efficiency and fit the diverse needs of our customers," said Prof. Dr. Jurgen Leohold, Head of Volkswagen Group Research. "In order to achieve our long-term desire of bringing CO2-neutral mobility to the market, advanced gasoline and diesel engines—like TDI Clean Diesel technology—must play a major role; and renewable energies to power these advanced powertrains are needed on a large scale."