The Rise and Fall of Diesel in Europe

European cars favored diesel post-WWII due to diesel's efficiency and lower cost. Governments incentivized diesel use, resulting in widespread diesel infrastructure and diesel-engine vehicle production.

Diesel engines offer 15-20% better fuel economy compared to petrol. Europeans, facing higher fuel prices, naturally gravitate towards diesel for its cost-efficiency and long-distance driving benefits.

European countries historically structured tax policies favoring diesel. Lower diesel taxes compared to petrol made diesel cars more economical, reinforcing their popularity among cost-conscious consumers.

Diesel was once considered 'greener' due to CO2 advantages over petrol. However, diesel's NOx and particulates came under scrutiny, leading to a reevaluation of its environmental impact.

The 2015 'Dieselgate' scandal, where manufacturers cheated on emissions tests, tarnished diesel's reputation, leading to a decline in European diesel car sales and stricter regulations.

With rising environmental concerns and innovation in electric vehicle technology, Europe is now rapidly shifting towards electric cars, signaling a potential end to the diesel era.