The Tokyo Metropolitan Government said Friday it will allow gas stations in the metropolis to sell diesel fuel with a lower sulfur density, which would make it easier for car owners to install equipment that would reduce particulate emissions.
It will be the first time such fuel is sold at regular gas stations in Japan, metropolitan officials said. The announcement came ahead of Tokyo's new regulations on diesel cars planned to take effect next year. Diesel-powered cars emit larger amounts of particulates than other autos.
Suspended particulates have been blamed for causing asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
A total of 144 gas stations will start selling diesel fuel with a maximum sulfur density of 50 parts per million as early as Sept. 2, the officials said. Diesel fuel currently sold contains 500 ppm or lower of sulfur.
Fuel with high sulfur densities hurts equipment that lowers cars' particulate emissions.