The road biofuel Superethanol-E85 experienced a record growth in its volumes sold last year (+ 85%) and saw its distribution network grow by a third, according to figures from the sector published on Tuesday.
At 340 million liters, this fuel, which contains up to 85% bioethanol from the fermentation of beets and cereals, still only represents 3% of the gasoline market. These are themselves in the minority, with diesel still representing 77% of road fuels.
"The fuel of purchasing power"
But it recorded unprecedented growth (+ 55% the previous year), indicates the Collective of bioethanol, which brings together producers (Association of beets and sugar, Union of producers of agricultural alcohol).
Its distribution network now includes 1,740 service stations: 634 more in one year. This product is available in 19% of stations in France.
At 0.69 euros per liter at the pump on average, less taxed, it is "the fuel of purchasing power", argue professionals in the sector, who also note its 50% CO2 and 90% less particles compared to fossil fuels.
Its progress has been clear since a decree of December 2017 which governs the approval of E85 conversion boxes.
Eight out of ten petrol vehicles compatible
Eight out of 10 petrol vehicles are today compatible with at least one of the 13 boxes approved by the State. This approach, which costs around 1,000 euros, benefits from subsidies in certain cities and regions, and the registration card is free in 10 regions.
As for SP95-E10 (which contains up to 10% bioethanol), the first gasoline in France since 2017, it still gained 5 points of market share in 2019, to 47.6% and almost 50% in December, indicates the sector.
In a context of rising fuel prices, the SP95-E10, compatible with 99% of the fleet and available in 70% of large stations, remains 4 to 5 cents cheaper on average than the SP95, we explain.
Bioethanol is "a production made in France", the leading European producer of agricultural alcohol, requiring less than 1% of the national useful agricultural area and generating 9,000 jobs, professionals still underline.
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