Fret SNCF has initiated a trial run of the first French freight train powered entirely by HVO100, a biofuel derived from vegetable oils and recycled fats. This project is a collaborative effort with EQIOM, a CRH Company, aimed at significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Fret SNCF is recognized for its low carbon footprint in France, with nearly 90% of its ton-kilometers being transported by electric locomotives. Through this partnership, EQIOM reported a reduction of over 8,500 tons in greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 compared to diesel road transport.
The use of HVO100 biofuel in thermal locomotives represents a further step by EQIOM towards sustainable logistics, aligning with its commitment to greener supply chain solutions. Rail freight already offers EQIOM the ability to optimize transport volumes, particularly for its Aggregates business, with one wagon equating to the capacity of 2.2 trucks. This move is also in line with EQIOM's renewal of its FRET21 initiative, underscoring its ongoing efforts towards decarbonized logistics.