Episode
Pittsburgh Drafts Innovation: Optimus Technologies Gives Diesel a Cleaner Second Act
- Podcast
- TechVibe Pittsburgh
- Published
- Apr 12, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 453
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Summary
Diesel engines have powered the global economy for over a century. Optimus Technologies is making sure they can power the future, too. Based in Pittsburgh, Optimus has developed a system that allows existing diesel engines to run on renewable fuels — like biodiesel derived from used cooking oil or agricultural byproducts — without sacrificing performance. It's a deceptively elegant solution to a massive challenge. While electric vehicles dominate headlines, the reality is that heavy-duty transportation from freight trucks to municipal fleets still relies heavily on diesel. In fact, roughly 70% of freight in the U.S. moves by truck. Replacing that infrastructure overnight isn't feasible . Optimus offers a bridge. Its Vector System, a combination of hardware and software, can be installed on existing vehicles in just a couple of days. The system allows engines to seamlessly switch between traditional diesel and low-emission renewable fuels, giving fleet operators flexibility without operational risk. The company is already making an impact. Customers include major organizations like the City of Washington, D.C., which uses the technology across hundreds of vehicles, and PepsiCo, where Optimus systems are helping reduce emissions in commercial fleets. From garbage trucks to long-haul semis, the technology is proving its versatility in real-world conditions. Looking ahead, Optimus is expanding into public transit — a sector with high fuel consumption and significant emissions impact. With buses running nearly round -the-clock, the potential for environmental and cost savings is substantial . For founder Colin Huwyler , who began developing the technology as an undergraduate at the University of Pittsburgh, the journey has been long, but the timing is perfect. As industries…