ClearFlame is promoting swift decarbonization for engines in trucking, agriculture and power generation.

Geneva, Ill.,-based ClearFlame Engine Technologies announced last week its $17 million Series A funding led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures with participation from Mercuria, John Deere and Clean Energy Ventures. ClearFlame has developed engine technology to enable low-carbon and carbon-negative fuels to be integrated into existing diesel engine platforms, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution than diesel fuel. (Construction Equipment)

Innovative engine technology

The solution provided by ClearFlame provides the same performance, efficiency, and rugged practicality associated with diesel engines, while eliminating the need for costly aftertreatment solutions.

By replacing 100 percent of the petroleum fuel used with decarbonized fuels such as ethanol, ClearFlame’s engine technology significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, particulate matter and smog, helping to meet stringent emissions regulations while reducing overall engine cost.

“We made this investment to stay on the leading edge of developments in renewable fuel technology,” said Pierre Guyot, SVP, John Deere Power Systems. “ClearFlame’s compression ignition engine technology has the potential to reduce CO2 emissions while continuing to provide the performance and durability our customers expect from John Deere engines.”

“ClearFlame’s engine modification technology makes it easy and economical to move away from fossil fuels, while keeping the efficiency and durability of the diesel engine – it’s a win-win,” said Carmichael Roberts, Breakthrough Energy Ventures.

Billionaire-backed Breakthrough Energy Ventures raised $1 billion early this year to invest in innovative climate solutions.

The funding will allow ClearFlame to commercialize its unique engine technology for the long-haul trucking, agriculture and power generation sectors.

The use of biofuels such as ethanol and methanol in diesel engines attracted investment from Mercuria, one of the largest commodity traders and refiner of biofuels.

Mercuria’s strategic investment in ClearFlame’s technology complements its continued commitment to biofuels as part of the energy transition,” said Boris Bystrov, Mercuria. “We strongly believe ClearFlame is positioned to make decarbonization in heavy-duty industry cost-effective by using existing liquid fueling infrastructure as the catalyst, which can drive more rapid market adoption.”

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