DaimlerChrysler undertook vehicle testing using two Mercedes Benz C-220 CDI, vehicles without engine modification with CSMCRI's neat bio-diesel during April-May 2004. Distance over 6000 Km was covered and mileage was compared to that found with Diesel (Liter for Liter Jatropha bio-diesel has ca. 91.8% of the calorific value of fossil diesel), and no problem of any kind was encountered particularly the dramatic reduction in Particulate emissions. The high point of the trials was the successful test drive of the car by renowned Auto Journalists to Khardungla Pass , the highest (18,380 ft.) motorable road in the world. The collaborative DaimlerChrysler – CSMCRI – Hohenheim Project was given the DaimlerChrysler Environmental Leadership Awards in Magdeburg in November 2005. |