AdBlue® consumption varies depending on factors such as engine load, terrain, engine size, and temperature. The most practical way to estimate AdBlue® usage is relative to diesel consumption, based on experience from operating SCR systems.
AdBlue® consumption for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs) depends on vehicle type (truck, refuse vehicle, van), journey type, and engine workload. Typically, AdBlue® consumption ranges from 5% to 15% of diesel use—approximately 10 litres of AdBlue® for every 100 litres of diesel. This means the AdBlue® tank requires refilling less frequently than the diesel tank.
Quantity of Diesel per week (litres) | ||||||||||
Application: | 1000 | 2500 | 5000 | 7500 | 10000 | 15000 | 20000 | 25000 | 35000 | 50000 |
Light duty (<18 tonne GVW) | 45 | 90 | 165 | 240 | 315 | 465 | 615 | 765 | 1065 | 1515 |
Medium duty | 75 | 150 | 275 | 400 | 525 | 775 | 1025 | 1275 | 1775 | 2525 |
Heavy duty (>35 tonne GVW) | 90 | 180 | 330 | 480 | 630 | 930 | 1230 | 1530 | 2130 | 3030 |
Quantity of AdBlue per week (litres) |
AdBlue® use depends mainly on route type, as it only injects at exhaust temperatures above 200ºC. For planning purposes:
Consult vehicle manufacturers for precise figures.
Usage varies widely due to differing engine demands and operations (e.g., tractors used stationary or in motion). Typically, AdBlue® consumption is 5% to 10% of diesel use.
Passenger cars generally have smaller engines and lighter operating loads than commercial vehicles, resulting in lower AdBlue® usage. However, cars have smaller AdBlue® tanks and may require top-ups between service intervals.
Only use genuine AdBlue® in your vehicle; do not dilute or substitute with other fluids.