Biodiesel Powers Cyclone and Hawkeyes’ Team Motorcades

September 8, 2020

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and the Iowa Biodiesel Board are powering the team motorcades for both the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.

With more than 100,000 combined miles, the motor coaches will utilize homegrown soybean-powered biodiesel to transport athletes around the country to represent their universities and the state.

“The Cyclone Team Bus carries our team to events throughout the Midwest,” said ISA Women’s Basketball Coach Bill Fennelly. “It’s nice to have the team bus run on biodiesel fuel that is homegrown by our soybean farmers here in Iowa.”

Both universities cite the improved air quality and engine performance as primary reasons biodiesel is their fuel of choice. Additionally, using biodiesel supports farmers and rural communities throughout the state.

“We’re proud of our partnership with the Iowa Soybean Association and the Iowa Biodiesel Board,” said Gary Barta, athletic director for the University of Iowa. “We continue to seek ways to partner with those organizations that positively impact our communities.”

 Iowa ranks first nationally in biodiesel production at 400-million gallons annually. The biodiesel industry supports more than 3,800 jobs and contributes $489 million to the state’s economy. Biodiesel production also accounts for more than $1 in the market price of soybeans.

The benefits of biodiesel production and usage are numerous. Examples include:

·         Biodiesel is the most energy efficient alternative fuel with an energy balance of 5.5:1.

·         Blends of 100% reduce carbon monoxide emissions by 48% and smog formation by 50% while nearly eliminating sulfur emissions.

·         Soybean farmers see an 8% increase in the value of their soybean crop due to biodiesel.

·         Benefits to livestock producers are also abundant, including a 13% reduction in the cost of soybean meal due to the increased demand for soybean oil.

·         Biodiesel increases lubricity, extending engine injector life.

·         It is approved by all major motor manufacturers and requires no specialty equipment, engine or technician training.

ISA President Tim Bardole of Rippey says the continued partnership between the Iowa Soybean Association and ISU and U of I is more important than ever.

“We need to grow soybean demand and expand uses for our crop; biodiesel is an ideal way,” he said.

“When ISA says its ‘Driven To Deliver,’ we mean it, whether it’s building markets for Iowa soybeans or powering athletic competition using home-grown energy.”

For more information about biodiesel visit iowabiodiesel.org or iowarfa.org/biodiesel-center.

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The Iowa Soybean Association (www.iasoybeans.com) is “Driven To Deliver” increased soybean demand through market development and new uses, farmer-focused research and results, timely information and know-how and policy initiatives enabling farmers and the industry to flourish. Founded in 1964 by farmers to serve farmers, ISA is governed by a board of 22 farmers to advocate on behalf of the state’s 37,000 soybean producers, including more than 15,000 ISA farmer members and industry stakeholders.

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