Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth on Friday launched the indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel, a specialised fuel designed to enhance the mobility and operational readiness of military vehicles in sub-zero temperatures.
Developed jointly by the Indian Army and Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), the fuel is intended to improve the performance, safety and operational availability of combat and logistics vehicles deployed in high-altitude and extreme winter conditions. Officials said the technology also has significant civilian applications in snow-bound and high-altitude regions, marking another step towards the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Conventional diesel tends to thicken at extremely low temperatures, leading to clogged fuel filters and affecting vehicle performance in harsh weather. XWG Diesel addresses this challenge by remaining functional at temperatures as low as minus 42 degrees Celsius.
The fuel complies with Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission norms and IS 1460:2025 specifications and can be used across the Indian Army’s existing vehicle fleet without requiring engine modifications or re-homologation.
Speaking at the launch, General Seth described XWG Diesel as a “game-changing” indigenous innovation that would significantly enhance mobility, operational preparedness and mission reliability in extreme climatic conditions.
He said the new fuel would eliminate several measures previously adopted to keep vehicles operational during severe winters, thereby improving both the safety and morale of personnel deployed in challenging environments.
The Army chief also commended the Indian Army team and the Oil Marketing Companies for developing the specialised fuel within a year and expressed confidence that the collaboration would pave the way for the development of more specialised fuels to meet diverse operational requirements.
Beyond its military applications, officials said the technology is expected to improve the reliability and safety of vehicles and equipment operating in high-altitude and extreme winter regions, benefiting civilian users as well.
