The Introduction of Synthetic Fuels

Authors

Dr. R. Clark, Dr. J. Louis, Dr. W. Lüke, Dr. W. Warnecke, Shell Global Solutions, London / Hamburg; M. Gainsborough, Shell International, London; J. Jacometti, Shell International Gas, London

Year

2004

Print Info

Fortschritt-Berichte VDI, Reihe 12, Nr. 566

Summary

In the medium term, it is envisaged that traditional oil derived fuels will still dominate the transportation market, but there will be an increasing role of alternative fuels. A fuel strategy can assess the likely scenarios of the future fuel mix based on a number of inputs, including the strengths and weaknesses of the alternative fuel. Within the selection of alternative fuels, Shell sees GTL fuels as an important option offering a number of advantages:- strategic diversification, compatibility and cost effective emissions reductions. These emissions benefits are considered in some detail. Issues of bringing this new fuel to market are discussed, including the likely market model and options for both pure GTL and GTL blends. Engagement with key stakeholders of government, OEMs (e.g. Daimler Chrysler and Volkswagen) and consumer groups is an important part in gaining acceptance of new fuel concept. In this respect, GTL field trials have a key role for the market development stages; recent examples in Berlin, London and California are examined. Customer acceptance is also key with nontraditional fuels, in this respect GTL has the advantage of maintaining the same familiar infrastructure and vehicles. Recent retails launches of GTL blends are described.

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