What’s new at the pump: prices, compatible cars, advantages… what is XTL diesel, available at certain stations ?

Le gazole XTL devrait se retrouver dans de plus en plus de stations-service en France. Illustration dpa – Christian Charisius

Le gazole XTL, une nouveauté qui est déjà disponible dans certaines stations-service, se distingue du gazole classique par sa composition. On vous explique.

Have you heard of XTL diesel? This diesel, presented as a biofuel, is gradually arriving in service stations. Not all of them offer it yet, but the logo has existed since 2018, when the fuel signage changed.

XTL for "X to liquid", is a "synthetic paraffinic biodiesel made from waste (residual oils or fats)", as defined by the Altens company, which specializes in the distribution of alternative fuels.

As the Union points out, this fuel has been available to all motorists since the end of June, whereas until now it was reserved for road transport professionals.

What price?

Before we can find this new fuel, which promises to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, we will have to wait for stations to adapt their tanks. Some have already done so. This is the case in Grasse in the Alpes-Maritimes or in Athis-Mons in Essonne.

In this town, the pump distributes this new fuel at “1.69 euros or 1.70 euros per liter", indicates Actu.fr

What are the advantages ?

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the challenge main, the UFC que Choisir also explains that “since XTL is often produced from waste or residues, it does not compete with food production”. According to the consumer protection association, this fuel would be less noisy when burning and therefore makes the vehicle quieter.

For which vehicles ?

A diesel engine is required to use XTL. “XTL has a chemical composition similar to that of conventional diesel and can therefore be mixed with it, in any proportion. Moreover, a car that accepts the XTL does not require any modification”, indicates the UFC.

On the other hand, not all diesel vehicles are compatible. A list published in the Official Journal of July 6, 2024, establishes the list of models compatible with XTL diesel.