Diesel Direct and Saia Trucking Collaborate to Pilot Use of Renewable Diesel in California
Aug. 9, 2024
Diesel Direct, a mobile on-site fueling company in the U.S., has partnered with Saia Trucking, a transportation provider, to pilot the use of renewable diesel at Saia’s locations in Oakland, San Jose, Orange, and San Diego, California. Thus, Diesel Direct is promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing fuel efficiency within the transportation industry.
Saia Trucking's fleet initiatives include modernizing equipment to boost fuel efficiency, transitioning to alternative fuels, and leveraging new technologies to optimize routing, loading, and freight handling. The decision demonstrates Saia's commitment to sustainable practices and reducing its environmental impact.
Renewable diesel offers the following benefits as compared to traditional diesel:
- Lower Emissions: Renewable diesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 75%, significantly lowering Saia Trucking's fleet's carbon footprint.
- Enhanced Engine Performance: It provides superior engine performance, even in challenging conditions, ensuring Saia's trucks operate smoothly and efficiently.
- No Engine Modifications Required: Renewable diesel can be used in existing diesel engines without any modifications, making the transition seamless and cost-effective.
- Improved Air Quality: Renewable diesel helps improve air quality by reducing exhaust emissions, benefiting the communities around Saia Trucking's operational hubs.
Diesel Direct provides comprehensive fuel management solutions designed to optimize operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Saia Trucking's fleet across important California hubs will benefit from Diesel Direct's direct fuel delivery services, including handling refrigerated units, hazardous materials, and oversized loads with the highest level of precision and care, ensuring the fleet meets diverse client requirements.
"Diesel Direct's partnership with Saia Trucking marks a significant step forward in our mission to promote renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector," said Tim Johnson, Senior Vice President of Diesel Direct. "By piloting Renewable Diesel, Saia Trucking is enhancing their operational efficiency while contributing to a healthier environment."
Saia has reduced fuel procurement costs for approximately 135 tractors across four major markets through Diesel Direct’s mobile fleet fueling program.
According to Jeremy Model, Account Manager at Diesel Direct, Saia is projected to save 5,455 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent annually, comparable to removing 1,185 cars from the road, by switching to Neste's renewable diesel.
