HVO Fuel or Battery Electric: Which is Greener?

Battery Electric cars have higher upfront emissions due to the energy-intensive manufacturing process, particularly in battery production. However, these vehicles can offset their initial carbon footprint over time, especially if they are powered by renewable energy. On the other hand, using HVO Fuel allows for immediate emissions reductions without the need for new vehicle manufacturing, presenting a greener short-term solution when comparing HVO Fuel or Battery Electric options.

HVO Fuel, a renewable diesel produced from waste oils, fats, and vegetable oils, can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional diesel. This makes it a highly effective solution for cutting emissions immediately without needing to manufacture new vehicles. When fleet managers are considering HVO Fuel or Battery Electric, HVO offers a significant advantage in terms of immediate emissions reductions.

Although diesel engines are generally more efficient than gasoline engines, they are less efficient than Battery Electric vehicles. However, Euro 6 diesel engines feature advanced emissions control systems that substantially reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, especially when using HVO Fuel as a fuel. In the ongoing debate between HVO Fuel or Battery Electric, the environmental efficiency of Euro 6 diesel combined with HVO Fuel presents a compelling option for fleets seeking immediate emissions reductions.

When comparing the environmental impacts of HVO Fuel or Battery Electric, it is important to consider the source of emissions. Battery Electric vehicles powered by gas-fuelled power stations still rely on fossil fuels, meaning their overall emissions are linked to the efficiency and carbon intensity of the grid. While gas-fuelled stations emit less CO₂ than coal plants, they still contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, HVO Fuel is produced from renewable feedstocks, offering a far more sustainable and circular energy solution by repurposing waste materials. This makes a used Euro 6 diesel vehicle running on HVO Fuel an attractive option for immediate emissions reduction.

On the other hand, a used Euro 6 diesel vehicle running on HVO Fuel has already incurred its manufacturing emissions, and with HVO Fuel, it achieves a considerable reduction in operational emissions without the need for new manufacturing processes. Therefore, when comparing HVO Fuel or Battery Electric, the lifecycle emissions must be carefully evaluated based on local energy infrastructure and vehicle usage.

• Pros: Zero tailpipe emissions, higher energy efficiency, lower operational emissions as the grid becomes greener.
• Cons: Higher emissions from initial manufacturing (especially batteries), dependence on electricity generated from fossil fuels, particularly gas.

A Euro 6 diesel vehicle powered by HVO Fuel also has its own advantages and drawbacks:

• Pros: Significant reduction in lifecycle emissions by avoiding the need for new vehicle manufacturing, immediate operational emissions reduction through HVO, use of existing infrastructure.
• Cons: Although reduced, diesel vehicles still emit some NOx and particulate matter, even under Euro 6 standards.

Deciding between HVO Fuel or Battery Electric depends on multiple factors, including lifecycle emissions, the carbon intensity of the local electricity grid, and the availability of renewable diesel. In the current energy landscape, a used Euro 6 diesel vehicle powered by HVO Fuel may be the greener choice, offering immediate lifecycle emissions reduction and leveraging existing infrastructure. In contrast, Battery Electric vehicles powered by gas-fuelled power stations may not yet offer the full environmental benefits expected from a cleaner grid.

However, as renewable energy sources make up a greater share of electricity generation and Battery Electric vehicle production becomes more efficient, the balance could shift in favour of EVs in the long term. For now, HVO Fuel offers a powerful, practical solution for fleet managers and public sector officials looking to reduce emissions without incurring the environmental cost of new vehicle production.

Ultimately, a detailed lifecycle assessment (LCA) tailored to the specific electricity mix, vehicle usage, and renewable diesel production methods is essential to make a fully informed decision. For immediate impact and ease of implementation, HVO Fuel represents a robust and effective interim solution for reducing emissions in diesel vehicles.