Lineas, renowned as Europe’s largest private rail freight operator, unveils its groundbreaking FAME locomotive, signaling a firm commitment to combatting CO2 emissions in the transportation sector. FAME, derived from non-food sources like used cooking oil, stands for Fatty Acid Methyl Ester and represents a promising biofuel not yet utilized in locomotives. Lineas pioneers its application, marking the first rail freight operator to test this innovative fuel.
Currently undergoing final testing in collaboration with Cargill until June, Lineas aims to validate the performance and reliability of FAME-powered locomotives before deployment. The company underscores the significance of biofuels like FAME, presenting a viable alternative to diesel, particularly valuable for non-electrified rail lines such as those serving Flemish ports.
Highlighting substantial emission reductions of up to 84% compared to conventional diesel, Lineas sets ambitious targets aligned with Science Based Targets to cut Scope 1 emissions by 42% by 2030. However, Lineas stresses the necessity for enhanced infrastructure development to support widespread biofuel utilization, urging cooperation among stakeholders to expedite the transition to sustainable transportation fuels. Committed to advancing sustainability in freight transport, Lineas strives to empower customers in reducing transport emissions while maintaining top-tier service quality.