German Blogger's Test: Fuel-Efficient Diesels + Clean Fuels Hinder EV Adoption

Recently, German blogger "pkpk1" highlighted, based on a year's worth of vehicle usage data, that one reason electric vehicles (EVs) struggle to gain widespread adoption in Europe is the strong competitiveness of highly efficient internal combustion engine vehicles and cleaner alternative fuels. The blogger’s daily commuter—a G21 320d diesel model—achieved an average fuel consumption of just 5 liters per 100 kilometers in 2025, costing approximately €8.50 per 100 km. In comparison, the equivalent EV, the ID.7 Tourer, consumes about 18–20 kWh per 100 km, resulting in electricity costs of roughly €10.44 per 100 km. Moreover, renewable diesel fuels widely used across Europe—such as HVO100, made from waste fats and oils—burn more cleanly, reducing lifecycle carbon emissions by 80–90% and being gentler on engine after-treatment systems. Although HVO is slightly more expensive and requires vehicle compatibility (meeting the EN15940 standard), its environmental benefits and practicality are becoming key factors driving consumers to continue choosing conventional fuel-powered vehicles.