Interview with our CEO, Boudewijn Sanders
As XMILE continues to gain traction with shipowners and ship operators seeking to reduce CO₂ emissions and comply with CII regulations, we sat down with our CEO, Boudewijn Sanders, for an exclusive insight into the creation, success and insights of XMILE Fuel Enhancers.
1) How did you and your team come up with the idea of creating a fuel enhancer based on natural enzymes?
"My business partner, Marius Overbeeke, recognised the growing need to reduce environmental pollution while improving fuel efficiency and sustainability. With our team's expertise in fuel chemistry and biotechnology, we looked for a solution to improve combustion without introducing harmful chemicals. This led us to explore natural enzymes—nature's catalysts—which are known to break down organic materials efficiently. After extensive research, we developed a unique enzyme formulation that optimises fuel combustion, resulting in improved efficiency, lower emissions and reduced maintenance costs."
2) How many years did it take to develop the product to its current stage?
"Development took approximately five to seven years of rigorous research, testing and refinement. From concept to a fully marketable product, we conducted numerous field trials in a variety of industries to ensure consistent performance with different fuel types and engine conditions. Innovation is at the heart of XMILE and as new engine technologies and fuel types emerge, we continue to research and refine our formulations. For example, when new biodiesel blends are introduced, we immediately start testing to ensure optimum performance with the new blends. Our global innovation efforts include working with regulatory test facilities and field trials with customers around the world."
3) What would you say to shipping companies that rely on synthetic fuel additives? How would you persuade them to switch to Xmile?
"Synthetic fuel additives have their place in the market, but 99% of these products are chemical cleaners and don't actually improve fuel performance. Think of it this way: If you have a headache, aspirin might relieve the pain, but a better solution would be to change your DNA so that you never have a headache in the first place. Similarly, enzyme-based fuel additives such as XMILE tackle the root cause of fuel inefficiency rather than just masking the symptoms."
"XMILE is a natural, enzyme-based additive that is available worldwide, is compatible with all fuels - without changing fuel specifications, ensures compliance with engine manufacturers' warranties, is proven to improve combustion efficiency resulting in lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions, and is cost-effective and sustainable - no engine modifications are required. For shipping companies looking for an immediate, proven and practical fuel optimisation solution, XMILE is the superior choice."
4) Can you tell us what proportion of sales come from each industry, such as marine, automotive, industrial applications and mining?
"While sales proportions can fluctuate, our largest market is the marine sector where shipping companies are increasingly looking for solutions to improve fuel efficiency and meet regulatory requirements. The automotive and industrial sectors are also significant contributors, while mining applications continue to grow steadily. Our global presence allows us to tailor our solutions to the specific needs of each industry."
5) How do you distribute XMILE? Do you have distribution centres in different parts of the world or do you supply the product from the Netherlands?
"XMILE is not classified as a hazardous material and has a high flash point, which means we are not restricted in our transport methods - we can ship by air, sea or road. Our global distribution strategy includes several channels: Direct sales from our Dutch headquarters, primarily to international shipping companies and Dutch companies; sales through distributors throughout Europe, including the Balkans and Turkey; and strategic partnerships in key markets such as the Middle East, Far East and South America to ensure local availability and support. This multi-channel approach allows us to efficiently meet customer demand while ensuring reliable global supply."
6) What does XMILE stand for?
"Choosing the right name is always a challenge! We wanted something that reflected both performance and industry relevance. XMILE stands for Extra Miles, representing the added value and efficiency our product brings to fuel optimisation."
#maritime #CII