KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Pilot Travel Centers says it’s moving forward with its plans to have diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) available “at the pump” for its customers who will be using selective catalytic reduction (SCR)-equipped engines in 2010.

The largest US travel center operator says it will also offer pre-packaged DEF supplies at each of its 350 retail stores.

In the third quarter of this year, Pilot will be installing 100 bulk dispensing DEF pumps at selected truck stops and an additional 25 will be added each quarter.

“We have worked closely with Detroit Diesel Corporation and Daimler Trucks North America, as well as Gilbarco, to develop Pilot’s bulk dispensing capabilities and a billing/transaction system that will meet our customers’ need for ready DEF supply and fuel island convenience,” said Mark Hazelwood, executive vice-president for Pilot Travel Centers.  “The maximum distance between any two of our locations will be 2,618 miles. That is the distance between Milford, CT and Santa Nella, CA and it is also within the normal range for one tank of DEF on a Class 8 on-highway truck.”

The travel center also says DEF prices at the pump will be equal to or less than the cost of diesel.

“Pilot’s roll-out plan for DEF will serve the industry’s need for bulk DEF availability and pricing, and will support customers while demand for DEF builds and the rest of the DEF supply infrastructure develops,” said David Siler, spokesperson for Detroit Diesel and Daimler Trucks North America. “SCR, along with convenient, bulk supplies of DEF, will create efficiencies for truckers and trucking companies. It will improve fuel economy, saving them money – up to 5% or better – and truckers will have easy access to ample and affordable supplies of DEF where and when they need them.”