"Clean diesel" cars - is all diesel selling at U.S. stations now "clean" diesel?

Parent Cafe
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<p>Popular Mechanics says “Today’s clean diesels can offer better fuel economy and produce fewer greenhouse gases than some gas/electric hybrids . . . in response to EPA mandates that went into effect in late 2006, oil refineries are now producing what’s called ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). By definition, this “clean diesel” has sulfur concentrations of no more than 15 parts per million (ppm). That’s 98.5 percent cleaner than the sludge that coursed through the fuel delivery systems in disco-era rides, and 97 percent less sulfur than was allowed under a 500-ppm standard instituted in 1993.”</p>

<p>So, does this mean that ALL diesel for sale in the U.S. since late 2006 is ULSD or does a consumer with a diesel vehicle have to check for / hunt for ULSD when stopping at a service station?</p>

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<p>I’ve found the answer to my question - beginning in 2006, importers and refiners had to import or produce at least 80% ULSD, and in late 2010, that goes to 100%. Stations are allowed to carry both ULSD and Low Sulfur Diesel until Dec. 1, 2010 however, and LSD is non-compatible with diesel vehicles made in 2007 or later.</p>

<p>So, if you drive a diesel that’s 2007 or newer, have you ever had a problem finding ULSD fuel when you needed it? I would hope that wouldn’t be a challenge since it’s been no more than 20% of the supply for three years (and I’d assume that figure has been shrinking).</p>

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<p>gadad,
According to the government (Dept of Energy), who track such things, ULSD is available at more than 94% of current stations offering diesel as they close in on 100% by the end of the year. All California stations have only ULSD.
Michael Coates
Diesel Technology Forum</p>

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<p>Its interesting that in the US, diesel fuel costs more than regular gasoline while in Europe its less expensive.</p>

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<p>^^ there is less supply of diesel in the US. And it is more refined here than in Europe, which adds to the cost.</p>

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<p>A barrel of crude oil yields more diesel than it does gasoline. The price difference is due to the high demand of the military. Jet fuel is just diesel with some additives and tanks, trucks, and humvee’s all are diesel fueled.</p>