Since last April the government has offered a bonus of 10000 euros if you scrapped your diesel car (over 15 years old) and bought a new electric vehicle and lesser amounts for hybrid or low emission cars. In the near future the age of the qualifying diesel will reduce to 10 years, but the bonus for hybrids will reduce.
Some 11000 electric cars have been bought this year, about half in return for a scrapped diesel. France has the largest proportion of diesel vehicles in Europe and it will be difficult to move people to buy what are seen as more expensive, unproven cars. Perhaps a first step would be to equalise the price of diesel fuel and petrol, there often being a difference of 20 centimes per litre. The running costs of an electric car are said to be between 5 and 7 times lower than conventional fuels, at about 2 euros per 100 kms.
Our diesel estate car is now 14 years old and if it ever gives up we must think of a greener alternative. But are there electric cars suitable for two large and dirty dogs?
Val adds ... and bonny and Eldo!
comments to taglines82@gmail.com
