Iowa Biodiesel Board to host Ride-and-Drive at capitol April 8

Trade group`s "Iowa Biodiesel Day on the Hill" showcases growing consumer choice in clean, fuel efficienct diesel vehicles

WHAT: The "Iowa Biodiesel Day on the Hill," a public education day and luncheon hosted by the Iowa Biodiesel Board. Members and supporters will meet with state legislators to discuss the benefits of the state`s biodiesel industry.

IBB will also host a Ride-and-Drive with a few of the latest fuel efficient, clean diesel passenger cars, SUVs and pickup trucks on the market, fueled by biodiesel blends. Anyone with a valid driver`s license can participate.

WHEN:
12:00 - 3:00 p.m. 
Wed., April 8

WHERE: 
Iowa State Capitol
Room #115-116 (lunch) 
Ride-and-Drive: West side of Capitol, Finkbine Drive (between Walnut and Grand)
Rain plan: Will pick up participants in circle drive

WHO: Iowa Biodiesel Board Executive Director Grant Kimberley, IBB Chair Chad Stone, other biodiesel producers, petroleum leaders and farmers. Ride-and-Drive sponsored by Stew Hansen Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep in Urbandale, Charles Gabus Ford in Des Moines, the Iowa Soybean Association, National Biodiesel Board and biodiesel producer REG. 

BACKGROUND: Biodiesel is an advanced biofuel made from agricultural byproducts and co-products, such as soybean oil. U.S. consumers have more options than ever to drive cleaner, fuel-efficient diesel vehicles capable of running on domestic, renewable biodiesel blends.

According to the Diesel Technology Forum, renewed consumer interest in the diesel option has attracted the attention of more auto manufacturers. Conservative industry estimates put diesel's share of the passenger vehicle market at six to 10 percent of the market by 2023, exceeding estimates for other alternative vehicle choices such as hybrids and electric vehicles.