A two-year low
The role of Brent crude prices
In September 2024, fuel prices in France reached their lowest level in approximately two years, with diesel at €1.59 and gasoline at €1.68 per liter. This decline, observed for several weeks, is largely due to the decrease in Brent crude oil prices. Brent prices have returned to their late 2021 levels, before the impact of the war in Ukraine on prices. Fears regarding global growth contributed to this decline by reducing hydrocarbon demand. This phenomenon, while beneficial to consumers, raises environmental concerns about continued reliance on fossil fuels.
A call to postpone emission reduction targets
Heavy fines at stake
European car manufacturers want to postpone the tightening of the CAFE CO2 emissions standard, which imposes strict thresholds under threat of heavy fines, from 2025 to 2027. This request, reported by Bloomberg and Le Monde, comes from Renault and its CEO Luca de Meo, also president of ACEA, the automotive lobby in Brussels. Non-compliance with this standard could cost up to 13 billion euros for passenger cars and 3 billion for commercial vehicles. Manufacturers are concerned about the decline in the electric vehicle market in Europe and the return of hybrid internal combustion vehicles. They are asking the European Union to activate an emergency procedure to adjust these rules.
An iconic circuit as French heritage
Success against historical monuments
The 24 Hours of Le Mans Circuit was elected “Favorite French Monument 2024” during the show presented by Stéphane Bern on France 3, succeeding the Sedan fortified castle, crowned in 2023. The circuit won this title among 14 selected monuments across France, including the Douai belfry and the Château de Fontainebleau. This choice confirms interest in industrial heritage, with the Circuit being considered a cultural monument of the Sarthe region. In 2023, it welcomed one million spectators and has a museum open all year round. The mythical track has hosted car races since 1923, strengthening its place in the history of motorsport.
A world first for the climate
Expanded ban on fossil fuels
From January 1, 2025, the city of The Hague will ban all advertising for internal combustion and hybrid cars in public spaces, a world first. This decision is part of the goal to make the city carbon neutral by 2030, also targeting advertisements for fossil fuels such as air travel or domestic gas. This symbolic initiative, led by a municipal councilor from the Party for the Animals, aims to strengthen climate activism. Although this ban may be legally challenged, it sends a strong signal for the city. The party also plans to tackle meat advertising soon.
