E- and bio-fuels permitted in Germany

As expected, the FDP praises the approval of the new fuels, which are produced from wind, solar or hydrogen energy or from waste and residual materials. It has previously called it a mistake to rely exclusively on e-cars and their new purchase, as the changeover is financially unaffordable for many people. Now, however, existing vehicle fleets could simply continue to run and thus make an active contribution to climate protection. The ADAC takes a similar view. Now, environmental targets could be reached much faster than with e-vehicles alone. The advantage for motorists: even those who cannot afford an e-car can reduce harmful emissions by filling up with e-fuels and so-called HVO diesel ("Hydrogenated Vegetable Oils"). Provided that CO2 is really removed from the air during the production of e-fuels and surplus green electricity is also used, the climate balance is indeed neutral.

The transport association VCD, however, takes a different view, because the quantities of climate fuel produced are still far from sufficient to supply all internal combustion engines. The Greens have a similar view, also because e-vehicles consume much less electricity than is used in the production of e-fuels. Another point of criticism: e-fuels and other climate fuels are not suitable for every engine. The e-fuels that are currently on the market are usually only suitable for certain types of vehicles, engines and vehicle models. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the vehicle that wants to use e-fuels or is compatible with them before making the switch. He said it was important to fully inform motorists about the compatibility of the fuel in conventional engines. In the interest of the party, however, it was achieved that in the case of biofuels such as HVO diesel, palm oil and fossil raw materials are not permitted for the production of the fuel; instead, waste from the fishing industry, used fry fat or plastic waste is used.

Until now, only the admixture of synthetic fuels up to 26 percent was permitted. Now the fuels can be refuelled in their pure form. However, the refuelling of the fuels is not yet permitted. This requires an amendment to the Immission Control Act.

One advantage of the approval is that all those working on the further development of the fuel will now be encouraged to continue research into its use and better application. However, there is criticism that e-fuels are not subsidised by the state in the same way as electromobility. With similarly high subsidies, as with electric or even currently diesel, the goals of the energy transition could be achieved much faster.

With the approval of the fuels, the FDP also gives up its veto for the ban of classic combustion cars from 2035. Seen in this light, another obstacle has been removed on the way to achieving the CO2 targets. How this will affect the air quality in our cities and their environmental zones remains to be seen.