With the ever rising gasoline prices, many Americans are on the search for a less expensive and more economic way to reach the "Full" marker in their vehicles. Biodiesel technology is a relatively new answer that is gaining popularity because of its ease and minimal impact on the environment. Instead of using traditional diesel fuel to fill up a vehicle, biodiesel is a cleaner alternative that uses natural and renewable resources, such as vegetable oils or soy bean oils. According to biodiesel.org, "biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification whereby the glycerin is separated from the fat or vegetable oil." The final product is biodegradable, nontoxic, generally free of sulfur and aromatics, and can be used with compression-ignition diesel engines with little to no modification. Another positive impact on the environment is the fact that biofuel does not release harmful carbon dioxide (CO2) into the environment, thereby reducing pollution and aiding in cleaning the atmosphere. Biodiesel can be bought from professional manufacturers, or it can be produced in your own home for a fraction of the cost of traditional fossil fuel gasoline.

Biodiesel processors can range from a couple thousand dollars to six or seven, depending on the materials used in fabrication. Pre-assembled holding tanks will run you more, but they are safer than building your own. B100supply has a biodiesel processor that ensures maximum results and costs just under 2,000.00. Biodiesel fuel is a realistic alternative for owners of diesel engine vehicles, but traditional petroleum engines can be replaced with diesel components. Below is a current price list from a few popular vehicle manufacturers:

Toyota Prius
MPG: 51/48
MSRP: 23,000

Toyota Camry Hybrid
MPG:33/34
MSRP: 26,600

Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid
MPG:39
MSRP: 19,000

Honda Natural Gas Powered Civic GX (NGV)
MPG: 24
MSRP: 25,400

Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid
MPG: 23
MSRP: 38,000

Chevy Tahoe Hybrid
MPG: 23
MSPR: 50,700

The average cost of rebuilding an engine to take diesel fuel will run around 10,000 dollars, still significantly cheaper than purchasing a new vehicle.

A few downsides of switching to biodiesel are covered below:

• Performance issues at colder temperatures are worse than petroleum diesel. The reason for this is that at low temperatures, the fuel forms crystals, which can lead to clogged fuel lines and filters.
• Although biofuel does not release CO2, it does express significant amounts of Nitrogen Oxide into the air.
• If you do not already own a diesel engine vehicle, altering your car may be difficult because most, if not all, commercial auto shops will not replace a standard engine with a diesel.

Like all things in life, it is important to be educated with all sides of an issue prior to making a decision. Biodiesel.org is the largest database for biodiesel information.

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