Premium fuels with low ethanol levels ‘improve efficiency and cut costs’

A study to examine the impact of ethanol levels in petrol fuels on efficiency and cost-effectiveness has found that premium fuels with lower ethanol levels deliver approximately 10% more range compared to standard fuels tested.

The research, from Trakm8, suggests that increasing ethanol content in fuel reduces its energy density, making it less effective and efficient for consumers.

The Government has mandated a standard ethanol content of 10% in 95 ron fuels to reduce CO₂ emissions from petrol vehicles.

Premium fuels available in the UK, however, have retained lower ethanol levels, providing drivers with a more efficient fuel source, claims Trakm8.

In addition to improved mileage, using these fuels offers other advantages such as reducing carbon deposits in the engine and providing cleaning properties, it said.

These benefits can help prevent failures of components like fuel injectors, turbochargers, catalytic converters, and keep inlet ports clearer of carbon deposits, especially in vehicles utilising direct injection.

From a cost perspective, the Trakm8 study suggests that using reasonably priced premium fuels for a year at an average of 10,000 miles could save consumers around £80 at the pump.

Furthermore, by reducing fuel-related repair bills and decreasing CO₂ emissions by up to or even in excess of 100kg, consumers can contribute to a greener and more sustainable environment, it said.

The study employed a 2018 1.5L automatic BMW 1 series as the test vehicle, driven exclusively in comfort mode with stop-start enabled.

The test vehicle had 40,000 miles on the clock and only ever ran on 95 ron before this testing was conducted.

Various driving conditions were documented throughout the test to ensure accurate comparisons.

The research team reset the engine control module's adaptation before each fuel type was tested.

Specific drive cycles were conducted, and comprehensive data on the management of fuel by the vehicle was logged, including ambient air temperature, barometric pressure, injector duty cycle, injection on time, and fuel pump duty cycle.

The study compared three fuel types: E10, E5, and E0, all purchased from locations within a 2-mile radius.

Tesco supplied E10 and E5, while Esso provided E0, which was chosen due to its lower ethanol content.

The tests included runs at 70 mph on dual carriageways, an uphill test on a gradient hill, and a stop/start test around a block.

Trakm8's study suggests that premium fuels with lower ethanol levels offer significant advantages to consumers.

Not only do these fuels provide a more efficient range, but they also lead to potential savings at the pump and reduced CO₂ emissions, said Trakm8. 

By choosing a fuel with lower ethanol content, it says that drivers can optimise their vehicle's performance, minimise repair costs, and contribute to a cleaner environment.