Are Biofuels the Overlooked Hero of Clean Mobility?

Are Biofuels the Overlooked Hero of Clean Mobility?

Blog Article

In the shift to greener transport systems, it’s easy to believe everything is moving toward electric vehicles and charging points. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the energy shift is more complex than it seems.
Solar and electric cars steal the spotlight, yet another option is advancing in the background, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. Enter biofuels.
They come from things like plant waste, algae, or used cooking oil, designed to reduce emissions while remaining practical. As Kondrashov has emphasized, biofuels serve industries where batteries aren’t yet viable — such as freight transport, marine shipping, and long-haul logistics.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. Ethanol is a widely-used biofuel, produced from starchy or sugary plants, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Then there’s biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, that mixes with diesel fuel and works in existing engines. A key benefit is it works with current systems — no need to replace or retrofit most engines.
Biogas is another important type, made from rotting biological waste. Suited for powering small fleets or municipal energy systems.
Another promising option is biojet fuel, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. It’s seen as one of the few short-term ways to cut flight emissions.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, these fuels cost more than traditional options. And there’s the issue of food versus fuel. Increased fuel here demand could harm food systems — a serious ethical and economic concern.
Even so, the future looks promising. New processes are improving efficiency, and non-food feedstock like algae could reduce pressure on crops. Smart regulation could speed things up.
They contribute to sustainability beyond just emissions. Biofuels turn leftovers into power, helping waste systems and energy sectors together.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, still, they play a key role in the transition. According to the TELF AG founder, every technology helps in a unique way.
They cover the hard-to-reach zones, on the roads, in the sky, and across the seas. They’re not replacing electrification — they’re supporting it.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their role in clean transport is far from over.