You may have heard a lot of talk about the E10 fuel that has arrived at a petrol station near you, but many have questions regarding what it is, and if their vehicle is compatible. Below you’ll find answers to some of the main questions we’re asked, but if you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, and we’ll try to help all we can.
What is E10 fuel?
E10 is replacing the previously used E5 fuel as the standard option available at petrol stations. E5 should continue to be available but will be the premium option, commanding a higher price. The main difference between the fuels is their percentage of ethanol, which is a renewable biofuel produced from fermented plants. The new E10 fuel contains 10% ethanol and E5 contains 5%.
Diesel remains unaffected by this change.
Why the change?
Ethanol is considered renewable due it being derived from plants and not fossil fuels. As the plants absorb CO2 from the air as they grow, any CO2 produced as the ethanol burns is not additional, and therefore it is considered greener, meaning overall emissions are reduced. When spread across the UK’s car network some sources believe the difference this will make will be like removing 750,000 vehicles from the road.
How do I check if my car is compatible?
All vehicles made from 2011 should be compatible with the new fuel, and so you have the option of using the new standard E10 fuel, or the E5 fuel which can be found as a premium option in some garages.
If you are unsure about your vehicle’s compatibility you can use the government’s handy online tool, HERE.