Toyota mulls production of engines powered by coconut-based fuel

A leading car manufacturer has expressed keen interest in the local production of CME (coconut methyl-ester)-run vehicles, the Department of Energy said yesterday.

Energy Undersecretary Eduardo Mañalac told a press briefing that Toyota Motor Phils. Corp. may likely import automotive engines from Japan which could be run by CME.

"Toyota plans to send over a model engine to test the long term effect of CME. The tests will prove if bio-diesel based on coconut is really that effective and if it works, Toyota might export it to Japan," Mañalac said.

Based on the DOE’s study, CME – derived from coconut oil – can be used as fuel or fuel blend. It could also be considered as one of the most environment-friendly fuel.

The DOE has been promoting the use of CME as it issued the rules governing the mandatory use of CME after a series of consultations conducted all over the country. According to Manalac, Toyota has informed the DOE of its intention to participate in the protocol tests being conducted by the task force led by the DOE to address apprehensions about using CME. The task force, mandated by government to oversee the implementation of the CME program, is composed of representatives from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippine Coconut Authority, the Department of Science and Technology and members of the academe.

"We will finish the study and then make a decision if and when we will finally mandate the use of CME for all motorists. Isuzu and BMW are also participating with the Task Force to prepare the protocol tests," Manalac said, adding that they hope to complete the testing by the end of the year.

The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) outline the different roles the government agencies need to perform to push the National CME-Diesel Program, the first phase of which is to involve all government offices by directing them to use one percent CME-diesel in their diesel requirements.

President Arroyo issued last Feb. 9 the order that aims to create a new market for the 3.5 million coconut farmers in the country to help improve their plight. Positive results of various technical tests conducted reveal that the use of CME-diesel as an environment-friendly fuel promotes the Arroyo government’s campaign – for cleaner air.

The DOE has been designated as the lead agency in this program, in collaboration with the other government agencies, the private sector and the academe, to prepare a strategic plan outlining the goals and strategies to promote and develop the expanded use of CME.