Gasoline and diesel market in Europe - statistics & facts
Diesel is the most consumed motor fuel by drivers in the European Union. This is largely due to its prevalence among heavy commercial vehicles such as trucks and tractors, while motor gasoline remains the most popular choice for conventionally-fueled passenger cars. Gasoline and diesel are common petroleum-based motor fuels, whose usage dates to the beginning of the automotive industry. Despite the commercialization of biofuels and the emergence of electric vehicles, most cars on the road are still powered by petroleum fuel blends and changes to supply and pricing have huge repercussions for consumers.
In terms of purchasing power, Switzerland and Luxembourg have the greatest gasoline index or ratio of average monthly net salary to gasoline prices, allowing for the purchase of more than 2,500 liters of gasoline per month.
Although electric cars are becoming more ubiquitous on European roads, conventional fuels are expected to continue playing a major role in fueling older car fleets and heavy duty vehicles.
Europe’s motor fuel demand largely covered by regional refineries’ output
Except for Norway, Europe no longer extracts substantial amounts of crude oil on the continent. Nevertheless, oil processing and the production of gasoline and diesel fuel is still largely achieved through local refineries. The EU produces around 100 million metric tons of gasoline every year, with gas oil (red diesel) and diesel production being more than twice as high. Germany, as the largest car market, is also home to the most oil refineries in Europe. However, the 2025 closure of a BP refinery will affect Germany’s fuel production going forward.Taxes make Europe one of the most expensive motor fuel markets
Taxes account for roughly half of motor fuel consumer end prices in the EU. Taxation on gasoline is generally higher than for diesel as the latter is more often used for commercial purposes. The EU requires its member states to have a minimum excise duty of roughly 0.36 euros per liter on motor fuels, which contributes to European countries ranking among the countries with the highest gasoline and diesel prices in the world.In terms of purchasing power, Switzerland and Luxembourg have the greatest gasoline index or ratio of average monthly net salary to gasoline prices, allowing for the purchase of more than 2,500 liters of gasoline per month.
Although electric cars are becoming more ubiquitous on European roads, conventional fuels are expected to continue playing a major role in fueling older car fleets and heavy duty vehicles.
