KATHMANDU: Japanese automakers Nissan, Mazda, Subaru and Toyota have partnered with ENEOS, the country’s largest oil company, to develop a new low-carbon gasoline alternative.
The fuel will make its debut in the ST-Q class of Japan’s Super Taikyu endurance race, according to Carscoops. Automakers also plan to explore its use in everyday passenger vehicles in the future.
The alternative fuel blends plant-based bioethanol with conventional gasoline. Unlike common biofuels made from corn or sugarcane—which rely on farmland and food resources. ENEOS is researching ways to produce ethanol from non-food biomass, such as wood, grass and recycled paper. This approach could allow for wider production without competing with food crops or agricultural land.
ENEOS plays a major role in Japan’s energy sector, handling the exploration, import and refining of crude oil. The company also manufactures and sells fuels and lubricants. While headquartered in Japan, ENEOS maintains a global footprint with production and sales facilities worldwide.
ENEOS CTO Yuichiro Yama said that while electric and hydrogen vehicles matter, hybrids and fuel-powered cars also play a role in cutting emissions. Subaru CTO Tetsuro Fujinuki added that carbon-neutral fuels are a key part of achieving environmental goals according to source.
This collaboration highlights the Japanese auto industry’s continued efforts to diversify clean energy options while maintaining the practicality and appeal of ICE vehicles.
