Synthetic Fuels and the Future of the Combustion Engine
Ineos Automotive, the maker of the Ineos Grenadier off-roader, has expressed skepticism about the potential of synthetic fuels to extend the life of the combustion engine. This comes after the EU’s decision to allow limited use of carbon-neutral petrol alternatives for new cars after 2035. CEO Lynn Calder stated that there is currently not enough synthetic fuel available, and it is expected to be extremely expensive.
Synthetic fuels, also known as e-fuels, are seen by companies like Porsche and Bugatti as an eco-friendly alternative that would enable them to continue selling internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. However, Ineos doubts that synthetic fuels can fill the gap. Calder believes that it will take a long time to have enough fuel available at a cost that customers find acceptable.
Ineos is currently running a prototype hydrogen fuel cell version of the Grenadier, which connects the car operations with the parent company’s chemical operations. However, company founder Sir Jim Ratcliffe has previously stated that hydrogen also faces challenges due to its high cost and lack of infrastructure. Ratcliffe compared the cost of hydrogen production in the US to that in Europe, highlighting the significant price difference.
While Ineos remains uncertain about the future of synthetic fuels and hydrogen, other car manufacturers are more optimistic. Porsche, for instance, has invested £62 million into pilot production of synthetic fuel in Chile and aims to produce approximately 130,000 liters annually. CEO Oliver Blume believes that synthetic fuels could extend the life of the combustion-engined Porsche 911 until the end of the decade.
Bugatti, now partially owned by Porsche and Rimac, is also exploring e-fuels as a way to prolong the lifespan of combustion engines. CEO Mate Rimac mentioned the possibility of creating personalized e-fuel stations for Bugatti owners to synthesize their own fuel at home.
The future of the combustion engine remains uncertain, with synthetic fuels and hydrogen being two potential alternatives. However, the availability, cost, and infrastructure challenges associated with these alternatives raise concerns about their viability. As car manufacturers navigate the transition towards electric vehicles, finding sustainable solutions for the combustion engine becomes increasingly important.
In conclusion, while synthetic fuels have the potential to be an eco-friendly alternative for the combustion engine, their widespread adoption faces significant hurdles. The limited availability, high cost, and lack of infrastructure make it difficult to envision a future where synthetic fuels can sustain a combustion engine fleet. As the automotive industry embraces electric drivetrains, the focus should be on developing and improving sustainable solutions that meet the needs of both manufacturers and consumers.