Red diesel, also known as gas oil or marked gas oil (MGO), is a fuel used primarily for off-road machinery and vehicles in industries like agriculture, construction, and marine. It is chemically similar to regular diesel but is dyed red to distinguish it from white diesel, which is used for road vehicles.
The red dye allows authorities to easily identify its use since it is taxed at a lower rate than road diesel. Using red diesel in on-road vehicles is illegal in most countries, including the UK, and can result in significant penalties. Red diesel is a cost-effective option for businesses and individuals operating off-road equipment and vehicles, but its use is subject to strict regulations.