Run on GNR instead of diesel?…. “It’s just strictly forbidden”, explains a professional in the sector

Faced with soaring fuel prices, particularly diesel, some motorists are planning to “drive red”, that is to say on GNR (non-road diesel), as mentioned by our colleagues from “La Voix du North”. This fuel was designed to power the engines of off-road vehicles, mainly in the agricultural and public works sectors. Hervé Baumlin, manager of Alliance Energies in Erstein (Bas-Rhin), a network of independent companies specializing among other things in the delivery of fuel oil and GNR in Alsace and in the Grand-Est, takes stock of the differences between the “red” and diesel.

What is “red” and what makes it different from diesel?

This is the name given to GNR, but in fact it is exactly the same product as diesel, with the same characteristics, the same origin, etc. On the other hand, it is colored red and also includes a tracer which allows customs to detect that it is indeed GNR, since the fuel oil is also colored red.

So the difference is in cost?

It is the same product, but with a tax advantage for farmers and public works companies. Before 2010, farmers used heating oil to power their vehicles. Since 2011, with environmental constraints, the administration has created a specific product which is the GNR. Normally, individuals cannot access GNR. Some service stations offer this product, but they must ensure that the people who request it are authorized to receive it.

What can be the consequences for an individual who fuels his diesel vehicle with “red”?

Mechanically, there will be no consequences since it is the same product. On the other hand, it is just strictly prohibited because the taxation is different. Filling your vehicle with GNR means exposing yourself to very heavy fines for offenders if they are checked by customs.