A comparison of a conventional car with an energy efficient one delivered positive results. The environmentally friendly car was the same model as the conventional car (gasoline-powered, efficiency class B), but powered by natural gas with efficiency class A+. The price of the conventional model was € 10 375 and the energy efficient model came to € 12 950.

Lifecycle analysis was carried our based on an estimated 60 000 km of driving over a four-year period. The conventional model recorded a yearly proportionate procurement cost of € 2 594, while the environmentally friendly car was more (€ 3 238). However, the additional cost can be offset by yearly fuel savings (€ 525) and higher resale value at end of the lifecycle.

Result

So, despite a higher entry costs, the yearly lifecycle costs (€ 3 325) are lower for the environmental friendly model, compared to the conventional model (€ 3 523). The energy efficient model also emits less CO2 compared to the conventionally powered car (i.e. 1 185 kg annually per 15 000 km versus 1 425 kg).