General Motors has come into terms with the Indian agency Central Salt and Marine Chemicals and the US Department of Energy for developing iatropha as bio fuel. The spread of this fuel depends much on the commercial success. The concept is to transform the iatropha, a strong weed, as significant oil producer capable of becoming a biodiesel.
The pact will be valid for 5 years and meant for exploring other variants of fuel from any other plants. There will be two farms at Bhavnagar and Kalol in Gujarat at 33 hectare and 20 hectare area respectively. This includes 30hectare iatropha farm owned by CSMCRI at Bhavnagar. The cultivation of this drought-resistant, non-edible plant is easy and has harmless impact, compared to sugarcane and corn.
GM India’s President and MD declared that in case of this iatropha failing to yield the desired result, the company will think of adopting to biodiesel capable products. If the iatropha becomes commercially viable, then the India need not depend for imported oil. There will be enhanced greenhouse effects and economic growth. Iatropha has become a promising feedback and an alternative fuel in India. The tripartite JV will focus on lab-optimised promotion of iatropha. The usage of cellulosic ethnol is inferior compared to iatropha. GM is exploring the possibilities of bio-based diesel alternative fuels.