Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

Diesel fuel is taxed lower primarily because it’s historically been the fuel for trucks. Using Diesel engines in cars is a comparatively new development.



“Taxing the fuel used by companies is hurting the economy more than taxing the fuel used by personal cars". It's exactly the same reasoning/lobbying outcome that was behind the American (and now historic, I think?) tax advantage of light trucks over sedans. Both then lead to comparable, and in different ways unecological adaptations: diesels in Europe, F-150s stateside.


And why would anyone want to subsidize fossil fuel road transport when we have electric trains?


They are two different use cases. You need fossil fuel road transport from distribution centers and to the last mile of businesses and homes. I don't think electric will be able to handle that duty yet, and maybe not possibly unless for relatively short distance last-mile stuff.


I don’t think we want that. I’m just telling what’s happening.




Consider applying for YC's W25 batch! Applications are open till Nov 12.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: