Europe Cannot Define Technology Neutrality Without Those Who Deliver It

Brussels, 7 October 2025: President Ursula von der Leyen's recently announced decision, following the automotive strategic dialogue, to establish a Working Group on Technology Neutrality, is a crucial step in the journey towards accelerated, cost-efficient and just mobility. It offers Europe the opportunity to redefine how climate ambition and industrial competitiveness can go hand in hand.

Technology neutrality is not an abstract concept, it is the cornerstone of a credible, science-based transition to climate-neutral mobility.

However, as Liana Gouta, FuelsEurope Director General, stated "this debate cannot be credible or complete if the Fuel Manufacturing Industry is not part of it. Our sector brings decades of technical expertise, scientific data, and proven mobility and industrial solutions that are indispensable to defining what technology neutrality means in practice".

Bio-based renewable fuels, are already delivering real CO₂ reductions today while e-fuels are expected to also become part of the solution soon. The Tour d'Europe project across Europe proved that renewable fuels can already cut road transport CO₂ emissions by up to 87% on a well-to-wheel basis, and are therefore an essential part of the solution, alongside electrification, hydrogen, and other clean technologies.

This new Working Group, under the President's leadership, must focus on facts, not ideology. It must evaluate all available technologies on the same footing, based on their full lifecycle emissions, from production to use and disposal, and their true contribution to reducing CO₂. Only such a science-based approach can ensure policies that are effective, affordable, and fair for citizens and industries alike. On Europe's pathway to climate neutrality, no decarbonization technology should be ignored or excluded.

Technology neutrality also means recognising Europe's need for resilience and sovereignty. A successful transition must avoid creating new dependencies or excluding viable homegrown solutions. Renewable fuels produced in Europe from domestic sustainable raw materials, gradually replacing imported fossil feedstock, strengthen our energy security, protect jobs, and offer an affordable path to decarbonisation for millions of drivers.

So far, the Fuel Manufacturing Industry has not been included in the Strategic Dialogue. This should now change. The Working Group on Technology Neutrality cannot be complete and representative, without the input and participation of Fuel Producers. Excluding our industry would weaken the debate; including us will make it credible, comprehensive, and results-driven.

Liana Gouta concluded "It is time for policy to return to science and evidence. The European Fuel Manufacturing Industry stands ready to contribute its knowledge, data, and solutions, and to work alongside all partners to define technology neutrality in a way that truly delivers on Europe's climate goals while safeguarding competitiveness and social fairness".