When deciding whether to opt for a diesel- or gasoline-powered car, in addition to the basic cost, fuel consumption and climate protection are two factors playing an increasingly important role. Generally, a diesel engine emits around 25 percent less CO
2 than a gasoline engine and consumes over 30 percent less fuel – with torque ratings that are around 50 percent higher. Car buyers can use the recently updated “Fuel Pilot” to calculate the benefits of a diesel engine for individual models and different engine sizes. The application calculates, among other things, an annual CO
2 balance for 35 European countries. Whereas a Volvo V50 with a 1.6 l gasoline engine emits 3,420 kg CO
2 when covering around 20,000 km a year, the 1.6 l diesel engine emits 2,640 kg, i.e. a good 22 percent less.
The “Fuel Pilot” also enables a cost comparison. It calculates both the minimum amount of kilometers that a diesel model has to cover per year to pay dividends as well as the costs that can be saved with a diesel engine once this distance is exceeded. In Germany, for example, the diesel engine in the Volvo V50 1.6 is more cost-effective from 6,393 kilometers. The calculations of the “Fuel Pilot” are based on the latest statistics provided by Bosch and the vehicle cost databases of the ADAC. A cost comparison over four years takes into account the procurement price or list price of the manufacturer, the cost of oil changes and inspections, the usual wear parts, and costs for replacing tires, vehicle tax, third-party liability insurance, and comprehensive insurance with a 50 percent no-claims bonus. The anticipated depreciation and the average costs for fuel and oil changes are also included in the calculation. The fuel prices are based on the average cost of fuel in each country. The “Fuel Pilot” is updated every six months.
