Diesel vehicles should be more environmentally friendly, at least at gas stations. Starting in April, drivers will be able to refuel with new types of diesel. On the one hand, this is paraffinic diesel, also called XTL or HVO (hydrogenated vegetable oil), and on the other, conventional diesel, which is enriched with up to ten percent biodiesel. At the gas station it is sold as B10.
The launch is scheduled for April 1. However, service stations will only be able to offer the new fuels on a general basis from mid-April. “This is because we can only change processes and controls at the beginning,” said a gas station operator in Aral, near Munich, to a question from FOCUS online.
Can I refuel ecodiesel anywhere?
The new types of diesel are not sold everywhere, because gas station operators can decide for themselves whether to sell B10, XTL or HVO. And drivers should know in advance whether their vehicle is suitable for the new types of diesel. Car dealerships and workshops can help with this. In principle, drivers should continue to refuel their diesel vehicles with the current type of diesel, Diesel B7.
Individual vehicle manufacturers report whether their vehicle models tolerate B10 or XTL diesel. In addition, each vehicle is already marked on the tank cap or the information can be found in the operating instructions.
These types of diesel will be available at gas stations from April 2024:
- Diesel B0: Does not contain any organic additives.
- Diesel B7: Diesel with up to 7 percent biodiesel
- Diesel B10: Diesel with a blend of up to 10 percent biodiesel.
- HVO 100: It is made from biological waste and waste materials.
Will it be more expensive at the gas station?
Yes and no. When launched on the market, the Diesel B10 could initially be offered at a higher price than the Diesel B7. Operators expect between two and three cents per liter. However, once launched, the price could drop quickly. Something similar happened with the introduction of E10 for gasoline in January 2011.
In principle, the B10 should be cheaper in the long term than the classic diesel, which is then sold at the pump as B7. So the concept is similar to the Super and Super E10. On average, drivers should be able to expect a price difference of at least three cents plus VAT. However, the oil industry determines prices. Good to know: If the price of diesel increases, the B10 automatically becomes more expensive.
HVO 100 is said to cost much more. The oil industry maintains that its production is more expensive. The Federal Association of Independent Gas Stations expects that drivers will have to pay between 15 and 20 cents more for HVO 100 diesel compared to classic diesel.
According to ADAC, the national average price of diesel is currently 1.73 euros per liter. If the price remains constant, starting in April, after the introductory phase, the appearance at the pump will be as follows:
- Diesel (B7): 1.73 euros.
- B10 diesel: approximately 1.70 euros.
- HVO 100 diesel: approximately 1.86 euros.
Was it filled with the wrong diesel? This is what you have to do
Gas station operators expect many questions from drivers about the introduction of the new types of diesel. One remembers the introduction of the E10, comments an operator when asked. “Back then, many people would first fill up the tank and then wonder if they had filled the right amount of fuel or if their car could handle it.” That was fatal.
Employees are instructed to continue recommending classic diesel fuel to customers. “We cannot be responsible if a certain brand does not tolerate B10.” When customers ask if they can refuel with B10 diesel, employees respond with a counter-question. “What have you filled yourself with until now? Play it safe and stand your ground.”
According to the Technical Supervision Society (GTÜ), incorrect refueling is considered operational damage caused by gross negligence. Therefore, insurance companies do not cover any damages that may arise. FOCUS online advises: Look double and triple at the fuel pump. Do you have the right lever in your hand?
If you discover during the refueling process that you have filled with the wrong fuel, please contact the staff immediately. Under no circumstances should the engine be started. Get help right away. As a rule, it is necessary to pump the fuel. Cost? From 150 euros. If you still have to dump the fuel and refill the car with the right fuel, that easily costs more than 200 euros.