Energy and transport policies in the last century were dominated by a dependence on petroleum products and this will continue for the foreseeable future. However, within this scenario, fuel specifications are changing continuously to meet increased governmental and societal demands for environmental and health protection, the requirements of new automotive technology and energy policy drivers. The worldwide development of fuel specifications to meet these needs has taken into account the different priorities and rate of progress of environmental, energy, transport and economic policies in the regions of the world.
This paper will review the area of automotive fuel specifications as an illustration of the contribution of fuel products to environmental improvement and energy policy. The specification development processes currently used in various regions will be discussed along with the status of key world-wide fuel specification issues such as the removal of lead and sulphur and the use of oxygenates. Key outcomes and conclusions are identified.
Looking to the future, the paper will identify driving forces for potential fuel quality changes. A preferred rational process for delivering fuel specifications is proposed together with the associated principles of clear objectives, a sound science basis and an integrated approach to identifying appropriate, costeffective measures.
The world continues to be dependant on oil as a major energy source. Although alternative sources are being developed, transportation will rely on fossil fuels for the foreseeable future. At least in the medium term, the consumer need for personal mobility will increase as disposable income grows along with the world economy, particularly in less developed countries. This trend will continue to put the focus on transportation fuels.
Governmental and public concern for greater health and environmental protection will continue to be the primary driver for improved, cleaner vehicles and fuels. Fuel specifications will evolve to meet consumer needs and contribute to regulatory objectives such as air quality standards. Other requirements such as energy policy, including concerns over security of supply, will also impact fuel quality decisions. The oil industry has been, and will continue to be, a major worldwide contributor to the processes that have defined the role of fuels in meeting these policy objectives.
Attention has always been given by the consumer to vehicle performance, durability and operating costs (fuel efficiency, maintenance). Additionally the environmental performance demands on automotive technology, and associated fuel contributions, have increased. The 1970s saw the development of the catalytic converter and the consequent need for unleaded gasoline. More sophisticated engine technology gave rise to the need for dete