Europe is currently on the threshold of introduction of unleaded gasoline. However, this will not proceed uniformly, as some countries such as Germany. Austria. Switzerland and now Scandinavia are moving much more quickly than others.
In those countries where unleaded fuel is available, registrations of catalyst cars and the build-up of the gasoline retail network and sales volumes are described. Possible future developments in these areas are discussed.
The potentials and limitations on the manufacture of unleaded gasoline are discussed together with the role of oxygenates.
The development of specifications in various countries is described and on the basis of market surveys actual quality is compared with the minimum requirements of these specifications.
Results of road tests are presented showing the effects of both gasoline with maximum lead content and engine oil with a relatively high phosphorous content on deterioration of catalyst efficiency.