Fuel in the crisis: renovation after financial turbulence in Dornbirn!

Fuel in the crisis: renovation after financial turbulence in Dornbirn!

The "Fuel Bike + Sport GmbH & Co KG" from Dornbirn, a bicycle manufacturer founded in 2003, is in serious financial difficulties. Rumors about the vacancy of a showroom had been circulating for weeks, and on Wednesday the opening of a renovation process with self -administration has now been officially applied for, reports the business press agency (WPA). The company has liabilities of 1.1 million euros, a third of which are eliminated to secure banks. The assets amount to only around 500,000 euros, which underlines the worrying situation. The desired quota for the creditors is 30 percent within the next two years.

The causes of this crisis are versatile. According to WPA, many bicycle builders suffer from a "yo-yo effect" after the corona pandemic: First, the demand for bicycles exploded, while the global supply chains were disturbed. This led to enormous inventory and finally to a decline in sales and prices. In addition, fuel has to struggle with severely increased fixed costs for rent and energy. Two of the eight employees have already been released, and the showroom in Dornbirner Eisengasse is closed to save costs and improve the financial situation.

Significant changes in the mobility sector

While fuel focuses on the renovation, the mobility sector and in particular the transport industry are faced with dramatic changes from January 1, 2025. According to the consulting company M3E, the CO2 tax for petrol and diesel is increased by 10 euros per ton, which results in an increase in fuel prices by around 0.16 euros per liter. There will also be stricter CO2 limit values ​​for vehicle fleets. The manufacturers have to fear fines if they exceed these limit values.

Another important point is the special treatment of electric vehicles and trucks. From 2026, toll fees for e-trucks will be lower than for diesel trucks, which makes the use of e-trucks more economically attractive. At the same time, the federal government is planning a special depreciation for electric cars to make it more interesting for companies. From 2025, new buildings must also be equipped with charging points for electric vehicles, which means that the charging infrastructure is to be significantly improved. These developments have the potential to fundamentally change the mobility landscape in the future, such as Trans.info explained.