History of Diesel fuel in Timeline

Diesel fuel is a liquid fuel designed for use in diesel engines. Unlike gasoline engines, diesel engines ignite fuel through compression of air followed by fuel injection, eliminating the need for a spark. Consequently, diesel fuel is formulated to possess excellent compression ignition properties, ensuring efficient and reliable engine operation.

1900: Crude Oil Diesel Engine

In 1900, the French Otto society constructed a Diesel engine designed for use with crude oil, which was showcased at the Paris Exposition. The engine was demonstrated using peanut oil without requiring any modifications.

1911: Diesel Engine at World's Fair

In 1911, a Diesel engine was showcased at the World's Fair in Paris. The engine actually ran on peanut oil instead of crude oil, and no modifications were necessary for peanut oil operation.

1993: Introduction of EN 590 Standard

In 1993, the DIN 51601 standard was replaced by the EN 590 standard within the European Union.

2000: Sulfur Content Reduction in EU

In the year 2000, specifications allowed a content of 2000 ppm max of sulfur, reduced to a limit of 350 ppm with the introduction of Euro 3 specifications.

2006: Introduction of Euro 4

By 2006, with the introduction of Euro 4, the limit of sulfur content was lowered to 50 ppm (ULSD, Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel).

2006: Transition to ULSD in the United States

In 2006, the United States began transitioning to Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) with the adoption of more stringent emission standards.

2009: Implementation of Euro 5

In 2009, the Euro 5 standard was in force in Europe, specifying a maximum sulfur content of 10 ppm.

June 1, 2010: Mandatory ULSD in the US

On June 1, 2010, the use of Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) became mandatory in the United States.

2016: Prevalence of ULSD

As of 2016, ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) is almost the only petroleum-based diesel fuel available in the United Kingdom, mainland Europe, and North America.