Diesel cars are still an option, find out why

In recent years we have seen how diesel cars are being targeted and considered a highly polluting type of vehicle that is not advisable in urban areas. Certainly, they are a highly polluting type of vehicle, but there are plenty of caveats to that claim.

Yes, diesel technology is dirtier and generates very toxic substances that are harmful to health, but fortunately, work has been done to develop a series of elements that eliminate much of that pollution. So, although the use of fossil fuels causes pollution, diesel cars have not only reduced particulate and NOx emissions, but also generate less CO2 than petrol cars.

Advantages of diesel engines

Diesel engines produce a type of pollution that emits a lot of nitrogen oxide, a type of particle that can cause health problems for people. But diesel systems are designed to trap these particles and neutralise them. In this way, although these particles are still emitted, the amount is much lower in a current diesel model than was normal in a model from 10 years ago.

As for petrol models, these do not emit nitrogen oxide, but their carbon dioxide emissions are much higher than those of diesels, which are much lower. And then we come to fuel consumption and its price.

At present, a considerable increase in diesel taxes is being considered. This will bring the price in line with petrol and the advantage when refuelling will disappear. That said, diesel cars consume less than petrol cars and it is still cost-effective to use one.

Long journeys remain more suited to diesel cars, which are more practical for them. Once a diesel car reaches a constant speed and operating temperature, it produces less pollution and is less harmful to people and the environment. We must also bear in mind that larger, heavier cars consume much more fuel. A diesel engine is more efficient and saves money.

So, although governments are considering phasing out diesel cars and replacing them with other types of engine, such as hybrids and plug-in hybrids, diesel engines are still a very suitable and efficient option today. The last word on diesel has not yet been said, so we may see more models and manufacturers committing to these engines.