Fri 21 Aug 2026, 06:15 GMT | Updated: Fri 21 Aug 2026, 06:18 GMT | Bunker Index Staff

Carnot tests engine on biodiesel as multi-fuel development programme advances


UK engine developer Carnot has run its engine on biodiesel, adding to prior diesel and hydrogen tests.


Carnot multi-fuel engine.
Carnot's engine has now run on three different fuels — diesel, hydrogen and biodiesel — with LPG testing said to be forthcoming. Image credit: Carnot

Carnot has tested its engine using biodiesel, marking the third fuel to be demonstrated on the same engine architecture, with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) testing said to be forthcoming.

The company, which is developing what it describes as a multi-fuel engine technology, previously conducted tests using diesel and hydrogen. According to Carnot, biodiesel has now been added to that list without requiring changes to the fundamental engine architecture.

Carnot noted that fuel flexibility is central to the technology it is developing. The ability to operate across different fuels without altering the core engine design is positioned by the firm as a potential solution for industries navigating the transition towards lower-carbon energy sources — where fuel availability, infrastructure and requirements can vary significantly between applications.

Biodiesel, a renewable alternative to conventional diesel, can be used with existing liquid-fuel infrastructure, making it an option for operators seeking to reduce reliance on fossil fuels without the need for significant capital investment in new supply chains. Carnot says the latest tests demonstrate how its technology could support customers transitioning towards alternative fuels without being dependent on a single fuel pathway.

The company has indicated that engine demonstrations will be made available to prospective customers next year.



International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) logo. Wind-assisted propulsion 'no longer just a concept', ICS panel says  

Shipowners weigh wind power as a practical, low-risk route towards decarbonisation targets.

Hoegh Starlight vessel connected to shore power. Höegh Autoliners vessel connects to shore power for the first time in Europe  

Höegh Starlight used 11 kV shore power in Zeebrugge, allowing it to switch off its auxiliary engines while alongside.

ROC logo. Chinese shipbuilder ROC signs deal for up to eight methanol-ready CSOVs  

Contract signed with European shipowner for vessels designed for offshore wind farm maintenance work.

MOLOB and Vale contract signing ceremony. MOL and Vale sign 25-year deal for tri-fuel ore carriers  

New vessels will be able to run on ethanol, methanol or heavy fuel oil, offering fuel flexibility.

Lars Malmbratt, ScanOcean. ScanOcean appoints Lars Malmbratt as senior commercial manager  

Swedish firm strengthens commercial team with experienced industry executive based in Gothenburg.

Sea Horizon vessel. Pinnacle Marine launches second B100-compatible harbour craft for Les Star  

Sea Horizon joins Singapore’s harbour craft fleet.

Ocean Breeze vessel. Sallaum Lines orders LNG-fuelled, ammonia-ready PCTCs from Chinese yards  

Operator signs shipbuilding agreements for new generation of 8,600-CEU vessels, taking its newbuild investment past $1bn.

Energy North vessel. Nakilat takes delivery of dual-fuel carrier in South Korea  

Ammonia-ready design positions vessel to play key role in future low-carbon energy supply chains, says Qatari firm.

Acta Hercules naming ceremony. Acta Marine christens methanol dual-fuel vessel Acta Hercules in IJmuiden  

Dutch operator marks the christening of its second newbuild CSOV.

Maran Melina vessel. Angelicoussis Group takes delivery of fifth dual-fuel Suezmax tanker  

Maran Tankers Management adds the 155,500-DWT Maran Melina to its fleet.