Proposing intelligent alternative propulsion concepts contributing to higher CO2-savings with first-generation biofuels

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how opting for multiple contributors to the lowC economy and introducing new intelligent solutions allows a smooth transition to renewable fuels. Undoubtedly, biofuels are no longer everybody's darling. This is partly owed to the need to produce bio fuels at the lowest possible price and absent sustainability regulations or their enforcement like the European parliament initiated by banning bio fuels with not sufficient evidence of saving CO2. But on the other hand, the end of cheap oil is clearly visible and it is clear that second generation lowC fuels may by no means be able to replace all of the worlds growing fuel consumption in a few years.Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a tri‐fold approach which has originated of two EU‐projects (SUGRE and RECODRIVE) based on reduction of the propulsion demand, intelligent powertrain configuration and the use of residues and waste as feedstock. The RECODRIVE approach tested in the European proje...