The pressure and attacks have been constant. And the latest developments even point to the banning of the circulation of diesel cars in the main European urban centers – as early as 2025. And as expected, the market reacted.
Predictably, during the first half of this year, diesel car sales declined. And they are falling so badly that, for the first time since 2009, more gasoline cars have been sold in Europe than diesel. During the first half of 2016, the share of sales of diesel cars was 50.2%. This year, for the same period of time, the share has dropped to 46.3%.
Conversely, the share of sales of new gasoline cars rose from 45.8% to 48.5%. The remaining 5.2% that remain corresponds to sales of vehicles with alternative fuels or powertrains – hybrids, electrics, LPG and NG.
In absolute numbers, 152 323 less diesel cars were sold, 328 615 more gasoline and 103 215 more alternatives.
Less diesel, more CO2
Figures released by ACEA (European Association of Automobile Manufacturers) reveal increased concerns for manufacturers. Compliance with the CO2 emission targets established for 2021 was heavily dependent on Diesel. If the increase in gasoline car sales continues, it is guaranteed that all manufacturers will increase their average emission values.
How to solve this problem? The only solution will have to be an exponential increase in the sale of electric and hybrid vehicles. A point that ACEA highlights:
Erik Jonnaert, Secretary General of ACEAAlternative thrusters will undoubtedly play an increasing role in the transport mix and all European builders are investing heavily in them. To that end, more will have to be done to encourage consumers to buy alternative vehicles, such as providing incentives and implementing a charging infrastructure across the EU.
Truth be told, sales of hybrid and electric vehicles are growing significantly in Europe in 2017 – 58% and 37%, respectively – but we are starting from very small numbers. In other words, it is of little or no use to the builders' accounts, due to the small share. Hybrids account for only 2.6% of all cars sold (most of them Toyota) and electrics just 1.3%.
To learn more about the Diesel's downfall and attack, be sure to read:
Say goodbye to Diesels. Diesel engines have their days numbered
European Parliament Hastens Diesel Death
Diesel attack is a threat to premium brands. Why?
Are diesel engines really going to run out? Look no, look no...
Diesel: Ban or not ban, that's the question
Diesel: German car industry investigated by EU for cartelization
Did "Diesel Summit" Serve Anything?