Doha - Qatar Petroleum (QP) and its partners Shell and Sasol Chevron, opened an exhibition showcasing the characteristics of gas to liquid (GTL) fuel at the City Center Mall yesterday in continuing with the activities associated with the recently launched campaign to promote Qatar as the GTL capital of the world.
The exhibit features two unique GTL fuelled vehicles including the Oryx, a Toyota land cruiser, which participated in Sasol Chevron's GTL challenge, an 11,000km symbolic journey from south Africa to Qatar, and the Audi R10 TDI, which won the Le Mans 24 hour endurance race in June 2006 using Shell V-power diesel containing GTL fuel.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Saad Al Kaabi, Director of Oil and Gas Ventures at QP said the display provides an excellent opportunity to view two clear real examples of what GTL fuel is capable of achieving when used in leading vehicle technology.
Andy Brown, Managing Director of Qatar Shell GTL ltd and Qatar Country Chairman, said: "Shell is delighted to be part of this exhibit and to contribute with this amazing illustration of GTL power. Earlier this year, this diesel engine audio R10 TDI made motor-sport history and its remarkable performance is strongly linked to the inclusion of Shell GTL fuel in the race formulation. GTL represents cutting edge fuel technology and Shell is proud to play a significant role in taking Qatar to the pinnacle of the industry."
Also on display is the Oryx, a vehicle that took part in the Sasol Chevron GTL challenge. "The Sasol Chevron GTL Challenge proved that GTL fuel could endure some of the toughest conditions possible through African terrain. The GTL challenge is the longest single journey ever undertaken on 100 pure GTL diesel, taking 46 days and passing through seven countries, arriving in time for the inauguration ceremony for the trail blazing Oryx GTL plant," said Sasol Chevron Qatar Country Manager, Pat Butcher.
GTL fuel is produced from natural gas. It is colourless, odourless and virtually free of sulphur and aromatics, and can play a significant role in reducing local air pollution in major cities.
The fuel can also be used in conventional diesel engines without any need to modify the engine, or to make changes to the existing fuelling infrastructure. The GTL car exhibit at City Center will run until December 15.
© The Peninsula 2006
