AA Expands HVO Trial: Exclusive Insights and Updates

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In a significant step towards achieving its ambitious net-zero target by 2035, The AA (Automobile Association) is expanding its trial of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) as an alternative fuel for its fleet of recovery vehicles. This initiative not only reflects the organisation’s commitment to decarbonisation but also addresses the practical needs of roadside recovery in real-world conditions.

The AA has recently announced plans to extend its HVO trial, which has already demonstrated promising results. Currently, the organisation has utilised over 66,000 litres of HVO, enabling its vehicles to cover an impressive 210,000 miles. This transition has led to a remarkable 95% reduction in carbon emissions at the point of use, resulting in a saving of 165 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions compared to traditional diesel counterparts. If the upcoming year of testing follows suit, this figure could potentially rise to over 700 tonnes, showcasing the significant impact that HVO can have on reducing the carbon footprint of The AA’s operations.

The AA operates a diverse fleet of more than 3,000 vehicles, which contribute to 95% of the organisation’s scope 1 and 2 emissions. Therefore, the decarbonisation of its fleet is imperative for meeting its net-zero target. As part of this transition, The AA is set to increase the number of vehicles running on HVO to 27 later this year, representing more than 10% of its flatbed recovery trucks. This is a notable development in The AA’s pursuit of innovative solutions for reducing emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.

One of the standout benefits of using HVO is its cleaner burning properties, which lead to reduced maintenance costs. The AA’s Fleet Engineering team has indicated that fewer Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regenerations are necessary when using HVO, translating to lower maintenance expenses. Additionally, there are no modification costs for diesel fleet owners, allowing fleets to transition smoothly to HVO without incurring extra expenses. In situations where HVO supply may be limited, operators can simply top up with diesel, ensuring operational continuity.

While the HVO trial is making significant strides, The AA is also exploring other alternative fuel options. Recently, the organisation announced its first major trial of plug-in vans for roadside recovery. This initiative includes the addition of 15 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and 15 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) to its roadside service fleet. As part of this trial, all patrols will be equipped with home chargers, supported by Rightcharge, which aims to facilitate the charging needs of the electric vehicles.

Duncan Webb, The AA’s head of fleet, emphasised the importance of decarbonisation as a business priority. He stated, “Decarbonising is a business priority, and we’re committed to reaching our 2035 net-zero target, so fleet innovation and exploration are key to this journey.” Webb further elaborated on the significance of the HVO trial as part of a broader initiative to collaborate with manufacturers and suppliers in identifying effective solutions for roadside recovery while working towards the decarbonisation of the fleet.

He added, “We’ve seen some fantastic results in terms of miles per gallon and a 95% emissions reduction. This, coupled with no impact on the operational performance of the trucks, the HVO price premium falling, HVO availability improving, and signs of fuel efficiency gains, means we’re keen to extend our trials. HVO is proving to be an exciting part of our alternative fuel ‘test and scale’ programme, and I’m looking forward to seeing what the next six months bring.”

As The AA embarks on this innovative journey, it’s clear that the organisation is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable transport solutions. By embracing alternative fuels like HVO and investing in electric vehicles, The AA is not only reducing its carbon emissions but also setting a benchmark for other organisations within the industry. The ongoing trials of HVO and electric vehicles are vital steps towards a greener and more sustainable future for roadside assistance and recovery services.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of climate change and the urgent need for decarbonisation, initiatives like those undertaken by The AA offer hope and inspiration. They demonstrate that with commitment, innovation, and collaboration, the transition to a net-zero economy is not only achievable but also practical. The coming months will undoubtedly reveal more insights and advancements in this area, and we look forward to sharing further updates with you.

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