An Assessment of the Energy Efficiency of Diesel and Electric Cars for Sustainable Urban Logistics

Transport decarbonization and electrification are the current concepts of sustainable logistics. The European Green Deal aims to remove internal combustion engine vehicles from the roads and make the continent climate neutral by 2050. However, there is much debate about the means to achieve this goal and the rivalry between diesel and electric vehicles. This article aims to analyze the impact of the energy efficiency of diesel and electric vehicles on the sustainability of urban logistics and the benefits for the average transport user—the driver. The study uses scientific literature, statistical, comparative, SWOT analysis methods, and experimental research methods. In addition, a qualitative study was conducted with the help of experts, and the problematic relationships between diesel and electric vehicles were analyzed. The results of the study showed that even an old diesel vehicle is not inferior to a new electric vehicle in terms of energy efficiency and operation for the average user but does not meet the theoretical sustainability standards for urban logistics. Therefore, broader apolitical discussion and practical experiments are needed to ensure that the results of future research are unbiased.