Public transport lures Belgians out of their car

For the first time in 15 years, less Diesel has been sold in Belgium. The sold volume of gasoline also dropped significantly. At the same time, public transport is gaining popularity in Belgium.

The Belgians bought more fuel efficient cars last year. The amount of Diesel sold at the gas station dropped 1.7 percent while gasoline dropped a staggering 8.8 percent, compared with 2004. Even the amount of Liquified Petroleum Gas dropped, while this fuel is gaining popularity in the Netherlands.

Public Transport
The government of Belgium invested heavily in public transport in recent years. Buses are dirt cheap and drive frequently. The number of passengers is rising spectacularly, while commuters in surrounding countries are leaving the bus to buy a car.

Links are in Dutch and Flemish:

http://www.rtl.nl/(/financien/rtlz/home/)/components/financien/rtlz/2006/weken_2006/14/07-belgie_ov_auto_benzine.xml

http://www.gva.be/nieuws/Economie/default.asp?art={3C64B137-C0F2-4FD2-A725-0DE8F25454A9}