As the world grapples with energy price volatility and environmental issues, seeking alternative fuels that Thailand can produce domestically is not only about reducing vehicle operating costs but also concerns energy security, farmer incomes, and lessening dependence on imported oil.
One available and immediately usable option is "B20 biodiesel" which consists of about 20% biodiesel blended with diesel fuel, using key raw materials sourced from domestic agricultural products.
Triepetch Isuzu Sales Co., Ltd. organized the "Isuzu B20 Press Trip," inviting automotive journalists to test Isuzu D-MAX pickups and MU-X SUVs fueled entirely with B20 along the route, to demonstrate real-world usage and reassure users who have concerns about performance, fuel efficiency, and engine impact.
The test involved 10 Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X vehicles filled with B20 fuel tanks; D-MAX has a fuel tank capacity of 76 liters, while MU-X holds 80 liters.
The convoy departed from Bangkok, passing through Chonburi and Rayong provinces, before reaching Hat Chao Lao in Tha Mai district, Chanthaburi province, and then returned, covering a total distance of 586.8 kilometers. The trip showed that the vehicles maintained normal driving performance. Isuzu noted no significant difference compared to using B7 fuel, both in engine power and fuel efficiency.
At the same time, based on fuel prices as of 17 August 2026, B20 is about 5 baht per liter cheaper than B7, helping reduce costs for vehicle users, especially commercial vehicles with high mileage and frequent refueling.
Besides driver feedback, Isuzu used the G-IDSS tool, a specialized device to monitor and analyze engine operation, as part of the test.
This system checks key parameters such as fuel rail pressure, compensation of injectors across all four cylinders, injection timing and volume, and the status of the DPD system, which traps particulate matter from exhaust. Results showed both vehicle models’ engines operated normally on B20 fuel, providing confidence that this alternative fuel can be used reliably in models designated by the manufacturer.
Vichai Sinanantaphat, Deputy Managing Director of Triepetch Isuzu Sales Co., Ltd., said energy and environmental challenges require cooperation across sectors to achieve energy security alongside greenhouse gas reduction.
Isuzu has continuously focused on engineering development to enable vehicles to efficiently use B20 biodiesel. Currently, 505 Isuzu models support this fuel, including D-MAX and MU-X.
From 2024 onwards, Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X models meeting EURO 5 standards can use B20 immediately, while other model years should consult service centers or vehicle manuals before use, as some may require part replacements to properly support B20.
Isuzu stated that using B20 can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by about 20%. During this test with 10 vehicles covering 586.8 kilometers, approximately 215 kilograms of CO2 equivalent emissions were avoided.
The benefits of B20 extend beyond tailpipe emissions, connecting back to the domestic economy by increasing demand for palm oil production, stabilizing agricultural prices, and reducing reliance on imported oil. For the government, B20 is a tool to manage domestic diesel prices and mitigate impacts from global energy market fluctuations.
Although designated models can normally use B20, users should adjust maintenance practices to match the fuel’s characteristics. Isuzu recommends changing fuel filters every 40,000 kilometers when using conventional fuel, but when using B20 continuously, the interval should be reduced to every 20,000 kilometers. The fuel filter costs 410 baht excluding VAT.
Users should use up the B20 fuel within about 1–2 months and avoid leaving vehicles unused for more than two months. They should also be cautious when operating in temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, as fuel may gel and affect engine performance. Warranty coverage remains according to factory terms, provided B20 is used in supported models following standards.
This test reflects that B20 is more than a cost-saving alternative fuel; it is a mechanism linking vehicle users, the automotive industry, agriculture, and energy policy.
However, widespread adoption of B20 depends on factors such as the number of service stations, consistent pricing policies, communication about compatible vehicles, and proper maintenance education.
If all sectors move forward together, B20 could be more than an economical fuel; it could be a strategic energy source that reduces imports, supports farmers’ incomes, and brings Thailand closer to carbon neutrality goals.