AA offers conditional support for biofuels

AA offers conditional support for biofuels

The AA cautiously supports the biofuels sales obligation announced by the Government today, provided the outstanding technical, infrastructure and cost issues can be resolved.

The Government’s sales obligation, starting in April 2008, would require 3.4 per cent of all fuel sold by oil companies to be biofuel by 2012. The obligation will likely be reached by the widespread sale of petrol and diesel blended with varying percentages of biofuels.

The AA has advised the Government that motorists’ support for the introduction of biofuels is conditional upon:

Mike Noon, AA General Manager for Motoring Affairs says “the introduction of biofuels can be a positive step for New Zealand, however solutions have to be found to the outstanding technical, infrastructure and cost issues.”

“Introducing biofuels without fully resolving the concerns would destroy public confidence in them. You only get one chance to get it right and the introduction of the last major fuel grade change, from leaded to unleaded petrol, was a disaster.”

“The AA urges the Government to take the time to ensure the introduction of biofuels is well planned and supported with clear information for motorists.”

Mr Noon says the AA welcomes the Prime Minister’s announcement that the government fleet is being reviewed and all future ministerial vehicles will at least meet the Euro IV standard.

“It is great to see the Government leading by example and they should be congratulated for doing so. Making the Government fleet more fuel efficient over time is an excellent move but the AA urges another step - all government fleet drivers should receive training on how to drive in a fuel efficient manner.”

“Keeping your speed down, driving smoothly, maintaining a good following distance and choosing the highest gear possible can have dramatic effects in reducing fuel consumption - up to 30 per cent for some drivers with a heavy right foot,” says Mr Noon.

ENDS

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