RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – The operator of the Indonesia-China High-Speed Rail (KCIC) or Whoosh has officially implemented the use of environmentally friendly B40 biodiesel fuel for maintenance trains on the Whoosh line. This step was taken to expand the commitment to energy sustainability that had previously been implemented on electric passenger trains.

The adoption of this new fuel is focused on diesel-powered support vehicles that ensure the reliability of the high-speed rail tracks. These maintenance trains are tasked with inspecting the tracks, maintaining the overhead power systems, and transporting technical materials.

With this transition, all maintenance operations now use a blend of 40 percent palm oil and 60 percent diesel. This clean energy policy was announced directly by the high-speed rail operator’s management.

The use of B40 biodiesel is part of the company’s strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. KCIC General Manager of Corporate Secretary Eva Chairunisa stated that this step ensures that the concept of environmental friendliness is applied not only to core services but also to the entire range of supporting activities.

“Until now, the public has known Whoosh as an electric high-speed train. We’ve also applied this commitment to sustainability to our operational support vehicles by using B40 biodiesel in the service trains used for infrastructure inspection, maintenance, and upkeep. Thus, the spirit of sustainability is present not only in passenger services, but also in operational support activities,” she said in a press release on Friday, July 31, 2026..

Besides, KCIC has stated its readiness to move toward using fuels with a higher blend of plant-based components. This plan will be aligned with government policies and the results of technical testing on vehicle engines.

“KCIC supports various government policies aimed at promoting the use of cleaner energy. The implementation of B40 biodiesel is one of the concrete steps we are taking right now, and in the future, we are ready to support the implementation of B50 in accordance with government policy after undergoing the necessary testing and meeting applicable regulations, while continuing to prioritize safety, equipment reliability, and operational readiness,” Eva said.

This initiative to operate low-emission maintenance trains aligns with Indonesia’s global climate target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. Through a combination of electric passenger trains and biofuel-powered maintenance trains, Whoosh’s operations are expected to set a new benchmark for the modernization of environmentally friendly public transportation in Southeast Asia.