The Iowa Biodiesel Board and Iowa Soybean Association joined Pilot Travel Centers, PepsiCo and Optimus Technologies last week to celebrate the launch of a new B99 biodiesel pump for fleets at Pilot’s Des Moines travel center, making it one of only a handful of stations in the nation dispensing almost pure biodiesel to commercial trucking fleets. The event included remarks from Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, who emphasized the critical role of infrastructure and public-private partnerships in expanding cleaner fuel options.

IBB and ISA contributed $25,000 in soybean checkoff funding to support the project, made possible in part through the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program which helps fuel retailers upgrade their equipment to accommodate higher blends of biofuels. “This B99 pump is a symbol of progress,” said Dave Walton, an Iowa farmer and board member of both IBB and ISA. “It’s proof that when you combine innovation with the right incentives, and partner with companies truly committed to their goals, you can make a big impact.”

Optimus Technologies has developed a fuel system to run on B99 versus standard #2 diesel to help large transportation companies, such as PepsiCo, meet their low-carbon goals. PepsiCo has converted roughly 20 semi-trucks to the new engine technology from Optimus and plans to use the Urbandale Pilot Truck location to refuel the fleet. B99 is a blend of 99 percent biodiesel and 1 percent diesel.

Blends of B20 and higher more than doubled in Iowa’s on-road diesel sales last year, driven by strong state policies and farmer-led investment. Iowa’s comprehensive state biodiesel policies supported that, Kimberley said.