Eco-conscious racing took a giant step forward today as Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced that it will use B5 biodiesel to power its race cars, transport vehicles and generators during the 2009 Jetta TDI Cup™ season. The series runs through September Sept. 25 -– 27, 2009.

The move to biodiesel makes the world’s most eco-conscious racing series even more environmentally relevant, reducing carbon emissions by an incredible 2,583 pounds. Over the course of the 10 race series each of the fuel-efficient* Jetta TDI® racecars will consume roughly two tanks worth of SynDiesel® B5 biodiesel, provided by a partnership with HYPERFUELS.

“The addition of SynDiesel B5 biodiesel in the Jetta TDI Cup race cars further demonstrates the feasibility of biodiesel as an alternative fuel source for American consumers, and supports the clean and green racing of the Jetta TDI Cup series,” stated Clark Campbell, Motorsport Manager, Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Volkswagen also recently warranted the use of B5 biodiesel fuel in all Volkswagen TDI powered vehicles available at local dealerships. This shift to biofuels is just one component of the company’s worldwide commitment to the environment, leading Volkswagen to introduce more 25+ hwy mpg vehicles than any other carmaker**, and develop alternative fuel technologies such as TDI Clean Diesel, which has earned Volkswagen a world record in fuel efficiency***, the 2009 Green Car of the Year title†, and a government classification as an Advanced Lean Technology Vehicle, qualifying consumers for a $1,300 Federal Income Tax Credit†† with any 2009 Volkswagen TDI vehicle.

Source: http://www.nbcautoshow.com/blog/1019855_volkwagen-racing-with-b5-biodiesel-in-2009

*31 city/40 highway mpg for Jetta TDI Sedan with manual/auto transmission. Your mileage will vary.

**:Based on hwy EPA estimates for all car brands. Your mileage may vary.

***58.82 MPG is the current world record for lowest fuel consumption across the 48 contiguous United States.

† 2009 Jetta TDI Clean Diesel has been awarded the 2009 Green Car of the Year® by Green Car Journal.

†† $1300 tax credit submitted under Notice 2006-9 and Internal Revenue Code, Section 30B relative to the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0L TDI Sedan and SportWagen. $1150 tax credit submitted under Notice 2006-9 and Internal Revenue Code, Section 30B relative to the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0L TDI. Available to taxpayers who purchase a qualified vehicle on or before December 31, 2010. Leased vehicles are not eligible for the tax credit. Only a limited number of full tax credits are available. Please consult a tax professional for more information or go to http://www.irs.gov.