CHICLANA, Spain – The first Volkswagen vehicle that will be powered by algae biogas has been presented to the All-gas project at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of El Torno Chiclana.
As part of the project, biogas is created at the Chiclana WWTP through microalgae cultivation whereby microalgae feeds on organic wastewater sent to the facility for treatment (read article).
The Volkswagen Up! vehicle can run on compressed natural gas (CNG) as well as biogas, as tested by the All-gas team.
The vehicle’s engine generates zero emissions, according to Spanish firm Aqualia who is running the trial, as well as an emergency fuel tank if a gas refuelling station cannot be reached.
It was in August 2013 when the All-gas project announced that the first batch of its algae biomass had been successful grown (read WWi article).
Frank Rogalla, director of technology & innovation, Aqualia, said: “For the first time in the history of humanity a car will be fueled with a full batch of algae biogas. This is the culmination of five years of hard work and a very proud moment for Aqualia. The way this algae is cultivated is twice as productive per hectare as other biofuels. This means it is a fuel with a positive energy balance, and therefore significant commercial viability.”
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