Rotterdam looks to an ethanol-fuelled future
Ethanol is the most realistic alternative to traditional petrol and diesel-driven cars, according to a leading Dutch transport advisor.
Ton Vermie, sustainable mobility advisor to the city and region of Rotterdam, says that ethanol – either as the sole fuel or as part of a dual-fuel system – is the one most likely to deliver short-to-medium term benefits.
Ton Vermie. Photo: BEST
“It is very efficient, as efficient as a diesel engine, with a high energy density. We really need to make the most of it,” he said, in an exclusive interview with MindsinMotion.net.
Vital
However, Vermie went on to say that more government support – particularly financial measures – were needed if the fuel’s potential is to be realised.
“The Dutch government is beginning to accept the benefits of ethanol, but there’s no real official support yet. As a result, ethanol is 30% more expensive than normal petrol. If the price doesn’t come down, it’s always going to be a struggle. Financial incentives are vital to getting the ethanol market going,” he said.
Long way off
Vermie contrasted the very achievable benefits of ethanol with the longer term promise of hydrogen. In theory, he says, hydrogen is hugely exciting. But he believes tangible progress on getting it into widespread use is still a long way off:
“The debates around hydrogen have been going on for decades. The discussions we had in the 1970s were also around in the 1950s, and we are still having them today. Technically we know it can be done, but it is troublesome and expensive,” says Vermie.
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