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The Globe and Mail’s “Diesel vs. Hybrid” article: a response from John White, Volkswagen Group Canada’s President and Chief Executive Officer
Dear Jeremy,
I am writing to comment on your article dating November 27, 2008.
Head-to-head comparisons of Hybrid and Diesel technologies are useful, but only if done in an inclusive manner. In my view, your article fails to accomplish this by representing an unbalanced viewpoint in support of Hybrid technology to the detriment of Diesel technology. It should also be noted that the Hybrid versus Diesel question is not a “zero sum” assessment, and that it is both possible, and necessary, to express Diesel’s benefits without dismissing those offered by Hybrid, or any other alternative technology for that matter, and vice-versa.
The Volkswagen Jetta TDI Clean Diesel meets all federal emission standards; in fact it is so advanced it meets California standards through 2013. In conjunction with federally mandated Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel fuel, the TDI qualifies as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle. The Jetta TDI Clean Diesel was awarded the prestigious 2009 Green Car of the Year® by Green Car Journal at last week’s Los Angeles Auto Show. The award takes into consideration all available green technologies at the time of judging, including hybrid, amongst others. The fact that our vehicle won that award speaks for itself.
In response to the comments made regarding the higher relative costs of Diesel vehicles versus Hybrid, it is inappropriate to simply look at the costs of fuel alone, since this is more a factor of refinery capacity and seasonal demand than it is the cost of crude oil (perhaps the topic for an entirely separate article).
Firstly the historical price difference between gasoline and Diesel fuel has been much narrower than it currently is, and it should be noted that the Federal Conservative Government is on record as having pledged to reduce the current tax on diesel fuel, a decision which we wholeheartedly support.
Secondly, the suggestion that Diesel vehicles are more costly than Hybrids is brought into question when you consider that the MSRP of the Jetta TDI Clean Diesel is priced $2,000 less than comparable Hybrid models.
Thirdly, your cost argument doesn’t take into account the total lifecycle costs of both technologies. Specifically Diesel engines are well known for their long-term durability, efficiency and in the case of Volkswagen Diesel powered vehicles, have proven over decades to retain strong resale values.
I also want to point out that the Diesel alternative is a very viable one not only in North America but abroad as well. For example, in Western Europe over 50% of all vehicles sold are powered by Diesel engines. Without exception, every mainstream manufacturer has an extensive Diesel offering.
As the auto industry works to reduce its reliance on petroleum-based fuels, there are many viable alternative strategies to be pursued including; Clean Diesel, Biodiesel, Hybrid, Ethanol, etc. Volkswagen applauds the efforts of all manufacturers who are taking steps to help achieve these means.
We also believe that it is important for the public to receive a balanced presentation of the facts surrounding all of the technological options available to them. I am hopeful that you will print my viewpoints so that consumers can then consider all of the facts prior to making their purchase decisions.
Thank you for your consideration.
Yours sincerely,
John White
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