Mazda and Nippon Express Launch HVO Biodiesel Trial for Vehicle Transport Logistics

Mazda Motor announced on June 2 that it has begun a demonstration trial using biodiesel fuel based on hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) for finished vehicle transport trailers in collaboration with Nippon Express. The initiative commenced in May 2026 and is intended to explore practical pathways for reducing emissions within automotive logistics operations while maintaining existing transport performance standards.

The demonstration is being conducted between the Hofu Nishinoura district plant and the Nakanoseki finished vehicle yard in Japan, covering an approximately 12-kilometer round-trip route. The trial is scheduled to continue through the end of 2026 and will focus on evaluating fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, and operational considerations associated with the use of HVO-based fuel in daily transport activities.

Key Details of the HVO Biodiesel Demonstration Trial

The project brings together vehicle manufacturing, logistics, fuel supply, and commercial vehicle expertise to assess the viability of alternative fuels for finished vehicle transportation. The participating organizations will gather operational data under real-world conditions to support future decision-making regarding broader deployment.

Operational Approach and Industry Collaboration

The fuel used during the demonstration, containing approximately 51% HVO, will be supplied by NX Shoji. Two transport trailers participating in the project will operate under maintenance, inspection, and usage conditions equivalent to those applied to conventional diesel-powered operations. This approach is designed to provide a realistic assessment of how HVO-based fuel performs without introducing special operating procedures that could influence results.

With the cooperation of Isuzu Motors, the participating companies will accumulate practical insights related to fuel efficiency, operational reliability, and implementation challenges. The findings are expected to support future evaluations regarding the scalability of HVO fuel usage within automotive logistics networks.

Supporting Long-Term Sustainable Logistics

Looking ahead, Mazda plans to work not only with logistics providers and vehicle manufacturers but also with fuel suppliers and regionally based businesses to encourage broader adoption of HVO fuel. The company aims to help expand market demand, strengthen fuel supply systems, and support the development of the infrastructure required for long-term sustainable use of alternative fuels in transportation.

By building collaboration across multiple stakeholders, the initiative seeks to create an environment where HVO can be utilized more widely in commercial transport operations while contributing to sustainability objectives throughout the automotive supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Mazda’s HVO biodiesel demonstration trial?
The demonstration trial is designed to evaluate whether HVO-based biodiesel can be effectively used for finished vehicle transport operations without changing standard logistics practices. Through the end of 2026, Mazda and its partners will assess fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, maintenance requirements, and operational challenges. The collected data will help determine the feasibility of expanding HVO usage in automotive logistics while supporting long-term sustainability goals and the development of alternative fuel infrastructure.

Who are the companies involved in the HVO fuel project?
The project involves Mazda Motor, Nippon Express, NX Shoji, and Isuzu Motors. Mazda and Nippon Express are leading the demonstration trial, while NX Shoji supplies the fuel used during testing. Isuzu Motors is supporting the initiative through cooperation related to vehicle operations. Together, these organizations are evaluating the practical application of HVO fuel in finished vehicle transport and gathering insights that may support future deployment across broader logistics networks.