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Understanding the New B10-B20 Fuel Formulas: Which Vehicle Engines Are They Suitable For?

Interview17 Mar 2026 20:19 GMT+7

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Understanding the New B10-B20 Fuel Formulas: Which Vehicle Engines Are They Suitable For?

Thailand's latest 2026 policy restructures energy use to aid palm oil farmers and respond to the global energy crisis by reintroducing B10 and B20 fuels as key options, especially targeting major consumers with B20.

In-depth information to help you understand the composition, usage, and engine impact of these fuels.

An in-depth look at B10 and B20 diesel fuels: alternative energy solutions for transport and industry.

The Thai government has announced a new energy direction focusing on increasing domestic biodiesel use to stabilize palm oil prices and reduce crude oil imports.

Composition and definitions of B10 and B20.

Both fuels are based on petroleum-refined diesel blended with pure biodiesel (B100) produced from domestic crude palm oil:

  • B10 diesel: consists of 90% base diesel and 10% biodiesel (B100). * Status: The government aims for it to become the standard diesel for regular vehicles in the future, replacing B7 at times.

    B20 diesel: consists of 80% base diesel and 20% biodiesel (B100).

      1. Status: Sold primarily wholesale to fleet operators in industries, agriculture, and construction; not available at regular gas stations to avoid confusion and pump competition.



Which vehicle types are suitable?

Vehicle manufacturer certification is the key factor in choosing which fuel to use.

  • B10 is suitable for most newer pickup trucks and SUVs (typically model year 2010 onward), such as Toyota Hilux Revo, Isuzu D-Max, and recent Ford Ranger models.

    B20 is designed for large trucks, buses, and heavy machinery. Compatible pickups include models confirmed by manufacturers, like Toyota Hilux Revo and Fortuner (2015 and later) or certain Isuzu D-Max models (2012-2019), possibly requiring stricter maintenance.

Will these fuels cause engine problems?

Using them in unsupported or older vehicles may cause issues such as:

  • Fuel filter clogging: Biodiesel acts as a solvent and can loosen deposits in the fuel tank that clog the fuel filter, requiring more frequent filter changes initially.

    Cold weather problems: B20 is more prone to gelling than regular diesel when temperatures drop below 16-20°C.

    Corrosion: Rubber parts (O-rings) and fuel lines in older vehicles may swell or deteriorate.

Recommendation: For continuous B20 use, consult service centers about replacing fuel lines and filters with biodiesel-compatible parts.


Price forecast based on 2026 data.

Due to fuel fund burdens and government adjustments reflecting global market prices:

  • Base diesel (B7): currently controlled at around 29.94 - 30.44 baht per liter.

  • B10: expected to be priced about 0.50 - 1.00 baht per liter cheaper than B7.

  • B20: sold wholesale to industry with higher agricultural content, expected to be 2.00 - 3.00 baht per liter cheaper than regular diesel (estimated around 27.xx baht per liter) to incentivize transport sectors to reduce costs.