DaimlerChrysler and Volkswagen are beginning a project to make a sulphur-free synthetic fuel out of dead plants as a possible alternative for petrol, according to the Detroit News.

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The paper said the two companies are working with Freiberg, Germany-based Choren Industries GmbH to produce the fuel by putting biomass under pressure.

The Detroit News said the car makers are experimenting to find substitutes for fossil fuels. The synthetic fuel, called SunDiesel, produces less nitrous oxide and particulates than petroleum-based products, according to the companies, and the use of sulphur-free fuel also allows for more efficient engines, the report added.

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