In a new joint declaration, a broad coalition of vehicle manufacturers and alternative fuel producers and suppliers, are calling on the European Commission to take a technology neutral approach in its upcoming review of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Directive, and not abandon clean, proven and cost-effective solutions that already reduce harmful emissions such as LPG.

The coalition includes ACEA (the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association), Liquid Gas Europe, ePURE (the European renewable ethanol association), EBB (the European Biodiesel Board) and UPEI (representing European independent fuel suppliers).

“It is imperative that all alternative fuels play a role in the energy transition,” the coalition said. “While it is important to set long-term objectives, Europe should not dismiss solutions that are already available, cost-effective, commercially viable and that positively contribute to the energy transition.”

The group urges the Commission to maintain its current definition of alternative fuels in the upcoming review of the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Directive, guaranteeing consistent policymaking and a stable investment environment. The Directive is intended to build the market for alternative fuels, such as Autogas and sustainable renewable fuels, which have already reached a certain degree of maturity.

Currently, alternative-fuelled vehicles represent a small but growing percentage of the EU fleet. Meanwhile road transport GHG emissions continue to rise, and many countries are in breach of air quality standards. That means the EU needs to take a practical approach, including promoting cleaner-burning fuels that are already commercially viable and competitively priced, that deliver immediate benefits, and that do not require drastic and costly changes to infrastructure or powertrain technologies. If you want to know more please check, this link.

22 January 2020