While Europe only relies on e-cars, many companies are assuming rapid growth in “e-fuels” – climate-neutral, synthetic fuels. But would they be available in large quantities at all – and would they be affordable? Yes, say the manufacturers.
The “eFuel Alliance” takes the high prices for fuel, even after the tax rebate, as an opportunity to develop an optimistic perspective for the prices of fuels made from carbon dioxide (CO2) and electricity. Monika Griefahn, spokeswoman for the board of the community of many interested companies from the mineral oil industry to the ADAC, even considers a liter price of less than one euro to be possible in the long term. The final price would then depend on taxation; as a climate-neutral fuel, it should actually be lower than with petrol.
Griefahn combines this statement with the call to Brussels for more acceptance of synthetic fuels in the decisions on the CO2 fleet targets next Tuesday (read more about this here).
In a press release, Allianz points out that Germany will remain an energy import country even if it turns its back on fossil fuels. “Many countries in the world have significantly more sun and wind, we should develop these energy sources for ourselves,” said Griefahn. This could make synthetic fuels affordable.
Griefahn continues: “If we look at it up to 2050, we might come up with a liter price of less than one euro”. First of all, synthetic fuels could be mixed with conventional petrol and diesel in a ratio of around five percent. This enables the expansion and ramp-up of e-fuels. According to Griefahn, this would save around 60 million tons of CO2 by 2030. “That equates to around 40 million cars a year. And it is affordable for people.”
The industry has signaled its willingness to expand, now it depends on the political framework. “The EU Parliament should therefore take into account on June 7th in the debate on the CO2 fleet targets for cars and light commercial vehicles that we can achieve these targets better if we have several options. A one-sided focus on e-mobility, as proposed by the EU Commission, would not be helpful,” stressed Griefahn.
In addition to tax equality for synthetic fuels with e-cars, which boosts investments, a changed crediting model is also needed for car manufacturers. “At the moment, the car industry in Europe can only meet its quota if it only produces electric cars,” criticized Griefahn. “If this is not put on an equal footing with synthetic fuels in a voluntary system, as we are proposing, then there will be no incentive to invest.” If this situation does not change, fuel prices would continue to rise. If e-fuels were only produced in smaller quantities, there would be no volume effect, which would lower prices to help relieve consumers. (awm)
On our e-mobility portal EFAHRER.com you will find all e-vehicles available on the German market
You can also arrange a test drive for the car of your choice free of charge and thus start e-mobility in an uncomplicated manner.
