WASHINGTON -- The Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance, of which NACS is a member, has launched two resources to help retailers respond to questions about ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel transition: a toll-free phone line, (866) 406-FUEL (3835), and Web site.[www.clean-diesel.org]

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards require a major reduction in the sulfur content of on-road diesel fuel and emission levels from diesel engines and vehicles. To meet EPA standards, the petroleum industry is producing ULSD fuel containing a maximum 15 parts-per-million (ppm) sulfur, which replaces Low Sulfur Diesel (LSD) fuel.

The phase-in period for ULSD fuel began on June 1. From now until Dec. 1, 2010, both ULSD fuel and LSD will be available. Some retail outlets will sell ULSD fuel, others LSD fuel, and some will sell both. After Dec. 1, 2010, all highway diesel fuel must be compliant with EPA standards for ULSD fuel.

The Clean Diesel Fuel Alliance is a cooperative effort of the petroleum industry, engine and vehicle manufacturers, end user organizations and the federal government. It exists to facilitate the smooth transition to the new diesel fuel by providing valuable information to answer questions that may arise for industry participants and consumers.

To learn more about ULSD implementation and regulations, click here to access the “Issue Update” provided by NACS.