Share

WATCH | 'Dirty' diesels are cleaner than petrol, but will it make a comeback?

accreditation
<i>Image: Deutsche Welle</i>
<i>Image: Deutsche Welle</i>

The choice of options when buying a car is becoming somewhat narrowed between petrol, hybrid and even electric powertrains these days.

One glaringly obvious omission from that list is diesel.

Diesel-powered cars are considerably less harmful to the environment than their petrol counterparts but why are they being brought into disrepute all over the world?

Not so dirty diesel

For starters, vehicle bans and the manipulation of exhaust emission data as seen in Volkswagen's well-documented 'dieselgate scandal' has given turbodiesels a bad name.



Do you think diesel fuels have been cleaned up, and do you think South Africa will be getting rid of diesel vehicles in the near future - would you want it that way? Email us.


READ | Even as first driving bans hit, Germany still clinging to diesel

Automakers normally offer a single diesel variant, or none at all, while the petrol range is more expansive. Some don't like the sound of a diesel while others just want an engine that doesn't sound like a truck.

Diesel vehicles are still pretty popular here in South Africa especially in bakkies and is set as a no-brainer for many customers.

Yes the age of hybrid and electric systems are slowly integrating themselves but in all honesty, diesels are a much cleaner alternative.

When you hear the word diesel, the image of black smoke will likely come to mind but the truth is that times have changed and diesels have cleaned up their act, putting it at the forefront ahead of petrol power.

Compiled by Robin Classen

Disclaimer: Wheels24 encourages freedom of speech and the expression of diverse views. The views of contributors/columnists published on Wheels24 are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent the views of News24 or Wheels24. 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE