FuelGermany
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Germany. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
197. Fuel
Fuel is a source of energy used to power a vehicle's engine. Common vehicle fuels include petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG and alternative fuels. Electric vehicles use electricity rather than conventional liquid or gaseous fuel.
Drivers should always use a fuel that is compatible with their vehicle. Using the wrong fuel can damage the engine or fuel system, while economical driving and proper vehicle maintenance can reduce fuel consumption.
Wikimedia.org • Santeri Viinamäki • CC BY-SA
Which fuels are commonly used in road vehicles?
Common road-vehicle fuels include petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG and compatible alternative fuels. Battery-electric vehicles store electricity in a traction battery; other electric-drive designs, such as fuel-cell vehicles, obtain their propulsion energy differently.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example
How can a driver reduce fuel consumption?
Smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic, maintaining an appropriate speed, correct tyre pressure, avoiding unnecessary loads and keeping the vehicle properly maintained can help reduce fuel consumption.
🔗 energy.gov • US Department of Energy, Internal Combustion Engine Basics
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, BEV components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, fuel-cell electric components
🔗 afdc.energy.gov • US Department of Energy AFDC, hybrid components
🔗 gov.uk • GOV.UK, E10 petrol explained; GB fuel-compatibility example

Traffic rules
Germany