Diesel Direct, Saia Trucking partner to pilot renewable diesel in California

Photo: Diesel Direct

Fuel-delivery company Diesel Direct announced Aug. 7 a partnership with Saia Trucking to pilot the use of renewable diesel at Saia Trucking’s locations in Oakland, San Jose, Orange and San Diego, California. 

“This initiative represents a pivotal advancement in promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing fuel efficiency within the transportation industry,” Diesel Direct stated.

As part of its mission to foster a more sustainable future, Diesel Direct said it is dedicated to providing innovative and ecofriendly fuel alternatives.

Saia Trucking, a prominent transportation provider, shares this commitment to sustainability.

The company has a longstanding dedication to reducing its environmental impact through sustainable business practices, equipment optimization and corporate efficiencies, according to Diesel Direct.

Saia Trucking’s fleet initiatives include modernizing equipment to boost fuel efficiency, transitioning to alternative fuels, and leveraging new technologies to optimize routing, loading, and freight handling.

The decision to switch to renewable diesel at key California locations underscores Saia’s commitment to sustainable practices and reducing its environmental impact.

Renewable diesel is a cleaner-burning alternative to traditional diesel, offering numerous benefits, including:

• Lower emissions—Renewable diesel can reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by up to 75 percent, significantly lowering the carbon footprint of Saia Trucking’s fleet.

• Enhanced engine performance—It provides superior engine performance, even in challenging conditions, ensuring Saia’s trucks operate smoothly and efficiently.

• No engine modifications required—Renewable diesel can be used in existing diesel engines without any modifications, making the transition seamless and cost-effective.

• Improved air quality—By reducing exhaust emissions, renewable diesel helps improve air quality, benefiting the communities around Saia Trucking’s operational hubs. 

Diesel Direct said its partnership with Saia Trucking extends beyond fuel supply.

Diesel Direct provides comprehensive fuel-management solutions designed to optimize operational efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Saia Trucking’s fleet across key California hubs will benefit from Diesel Direct’s direct fuel-delivery services, ensuring the fleet is always ready to meet diverse client needs.

This includes handling refrigerated units, hazardous materials, and oversized loads with the highest level of precision and care.

“Diesel Direct’s West Coast green corridor stretches from San Diego, California, to Portland, Oregon, and is expanding northward,” said Jeremy Model, an account manager at Diesel Direct. “Through Diesel Direct’s mobile fleet-fueling program, Saia has significantly reduced fuel-procurement costs for approximately 135 tractors across four major markets. This improvement has enhanced route efficiency and contributed to significant labor savings. Additionally, by switching to Neste’s renewable diesel, Saia is projected to save 5,455 metric tons of CO2 equivalent annually—comparable to removing 1,185 cars from the road.”

Tim Johnson, senior vice president of Diesel Direct, said, “Diesel Direct’s partnership with Saia Trucking marks a significant step forward in our mission to promote renewable energy solutions in the transportation sector. By piloting renewable diesel, Saia Trucking is enhancing their operational efficiency while contributing to a healthier environment. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to reduce emissions and build a more sustainable future for everyone.”