BPCL flags off first extreme weather grade diesel rake from Bina Refinery to power Indian Army’s high-altitude operations

The XWG diesel rake was ceremonially flagged off by Lt Gen Mukesh Chadha, AVSM, SM, VSM, DGST, IHQ of MoD (Army) in the august presence of Subhankar Sen, Director (Marketing), BPCL, along with senior officials of Indian Army, Indian Railways and BPCL.

The XWG Diesel has been indigenously developed by BPCL after assessing the unique challenge faced by Indian Army in operating military vehicles in extreme winter and high-altitude environment. BPCL’s Corporate Research & Development Centre (CRDC) & Bina Refinery collaborated for development of Extreme Weather Grade (XWG) diesel through innovation and technological advancements.

BPCL's XWG Diesel offers several advance performance characteristics, including ultra-low pour point, low cold filter plugging point (CFPP), excellent cold startability, improved drivability, reduced field maintenance requirements, and enhanced reliability under severe climatic conditions.

Speaking on the occasion, BPCL leadership highlighted that the successful development and dispatch of XWG Diesel is a testament to the organization's focus on innovation, self-reliance, and nation-building. The product is expected to play a vital role in enhancing fuel reliability for military logistics and operations in high-altitude areas, thereby strengthening operational efficiency and mission readiness.

Subhankar Sen, Director (Marketing), BPCL, said, “The successful development of Extreme Weather Grade Diesel and the dispatch of the first rake is an excellent example of BPCL’s research capabilities, technological excellence and commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat.” He added, “BPCL remains committed to providing innovative energy solutions aligned with the nation’s strategic requirements.”

“The flag-off of the first XWG Diesel rake is a moment of immense pride for Bina Refinery. This achievement is the result of excellent coordination and teamwork across BPCL’s research, refining, marketing and logistics functions,” said K. K. Das, Executive Director, BPCL Bina Refinery. He expressed confidence that Bina Refinery will continue to play a leading role in developing high-quality specialised products in the national interest.

Manoj Menon, Business Head (Industrial & Commercial Solutions), BPCL, said, “BPCL continues to work towards providing specialised energy solutions for the country’s strategic sectors, and ensuring uninterrupted and reliable fuel supplies to the Indian Armed Forces remains among its highest priorities.”

The dispatch from Bina Refinery further reinforces BPCL's position as a trusted energy partner to the Indian Armed Forces and showcases the refinery's capabilities in producing specialized fuels tailored to India's strategic requirements