India launches indigenous diesel that withstands temperatures as low as -42°C
The special-grade diesel, developed jointly by the Indian Army and state-run oil marketing companies, is designed for military and civilian use in high-altitude and extreme winter regions.
India today (31 July) launched an indigenously developed special-grade diesel capable of withstanding extreme climatic conditions, offering both military and civilian applications in high-altitude and severe winter regions.
The specialised fuel, named Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel, was developed jointly by the Indian Army and oil marketing companies and was launched by Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth, according to India's Ministry of Defence.
Designed for use in extreme cold, the fuel is expected to enhance the mobility, safety and operational readiness of combat and logistics vehicles deployed in snow-bound and high-altitude areas.
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Conventional diesel tends to thicken and clog fuel filters at very low temperatures, disrupting vehicle operations in harsh winter conditions. XWG Diesel overcomes this limitation by remaining effective at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius.
The fuel can be used in the Indian Army's existing fleet of vehicles without requiring any engine modifications, the ministry said.
Speaking at the launch event, General Seth described XWG Diesel as a "game-changing" indigenous innovation that would strengthen mobility, operational preparedness and mission reliability in extreme weather conditions.
He said the specialised fuel would eliminate the need for practices previously adopted to keep vehicles operational during severe winters, thereby improving the safety and morale of military personnel.
Beyond its military applications, the technology is expected to benefit civilians living in high-altitude and extreme winter regions by improving the reliability and safety of vehicles and equipment operating under severe climatic conditions.
