Caltex has today launched Australia's first diesel fuel enhanced with two per cent biodiesel. A ceremony attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services Mark Vaile was held at Caltex's Newcastle terminal to mark the start of a major expansion of Caltex's supply of biofuels.

"The introduction of Caltex's New Generation Diesel is part of our strategy to meet our commitment to the Australian Government's Biofuels Action Plan targets," Caltex Managing Director and CEO Des King said.

"Caltex is working with biodiesel suppliers in key regions to grow and expand this emerging industry. With several suppliers on the east coast of New South Wales, it made commercial sense to start the Caltex New Generation Diesel initiative at our Newcastle terminal. The product will also be supplied from other Caltex terminals when biodiesel supply arrangements and infrastructure modifications have been completed."

Caltex General Manager Marketing Mark Burrowes said that from today Caltex's New Generation Diesel will be progressively rolled out to around 185 Caltex service stations from sites in the Hunter region, the Central Coast to Grafton and as far west as Cobar, as well as to commercial customers such as those in the Hunter region mining industry.

"All diesel supplied from our Newcastle terminal will be Caltex New Generation Diesel enhanced with two per cent biodiesel. We will supply around 550 million litres of the New Generation Diesel that will include 11 million litres of neat biodiesel in the first year," Mr Burrowes said.

"Caltex's New Generation Diesel will be easily identified at pumps and customers will be able to pick up a brochure at service stations where the product is sold. Customers may also obtain more information at www.caltex.com.au or via the biofuels hotline 1300 784 009.

"Caltex's New Generation Diesel is an example of Caltex's commitment to the development of a sustainable range of fuel products ensuring we are less reliant on fossil fuel.

"This initiative benefits both the Australian environment and economy and supports rural and regional Australia through the increased production of renewable biodiesel feedstocks."

Caltex's New Generation Diesel is suitable for all diesel cars and trucks and meets Australian diesel quality standards as well as the strict quality standards of Caltex.

Contact:
Richard Beattie
Group Manager Corporate Affairs
Phone: 02 9250 5224
Pager: 02 9214 1146