E10 Petrol is now the 'standard' fuel in the UK. But what is E10, what does it mean for you and can your car accept it?
The UK government made a pledge to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035, which in their own words is "the world's most ambitious climate change target." One of the methods they have implemented to help achieve this target is making the switch from E5 petrol to E10. With much of the push being towards stopping petrol and diesel cars altogether, pushing drivers into electric cars, the government acknowledged that steps can be taken now to reduce the emissions emitted from the existing petrol cars.
Grant Shapps, Transport Secretary, stated: "Although more and more drivers are switching to electric, there are steps we can take today to reduce emissions from the millions of vehicles already on our roads – the small switch to E10 petrol will reduce greenhouse gas emissions as we accelerate towards a greener transport future."
The UK Government aims for Carbon Net Zero by 2050 Image Credit: The Carbon Literacy Project
What is E10 Petrol?
E10 petrol is essentially a different blend of fuel; it is blended using 10% renewable ethanol as well as being made up of other materials. These include low-grade grains, sugar and waste wood. The result of all this science? A greener fuel that could cut CO2 emissions that are created from transport by 750,000 tonnes per year. This is equivalent to take 350,000 cars off of UK roads. In comparison to E5, which was the standard unleaded fuel available up until now, E5 was made up of 5% renewable ethanol. This switch to E10 now bring the UK in line with some other European countries who have already made the switch, such as Belgium, Finland, France and Germany.
The biggest concern for many motorists will be if E10 is more expensive. The costs of owning a car are, considered by many, to already be too high. According the Government's website, E10 will not cost any more than E5. So you should not see an increase at the pump. On a very slight positive, E10 is estimated to give a 1% increase to fuel economy. Whilst it is nothing to write home about, an increase is better than a decrease!
Can my car accept E10?
For many people, the switch will not be an issue. Nearly every car built after 2011 should be able to accept E10 fuel. In 2011 it is made compulsory that all new cars built had to accept E10.
To make things easier, the government have compiled a free online checker to see if you car is eligible to use E10. There are around 600,000 cars in the UK that will not be able to accept E10, but for those the government says that E5 will still be available in the super grade level - such as Ultimate Unleaded or Super Unleaded. This will be for drivers of classic cars, for example. AA's technical specialist, Greg Carter, said: "Over 98% of petrol cars in the UK can run perfectly well on E10, but some older models, classic cars and motorcycles shouldn't use it."
Government guidance issued on E10 Petrol Image Credit: Gov.ukLooking for a greener car?
Pendle Lease have great leasing deals on all makes and models of cars, including hybrid and electric cars. If you are looking for a brand new car that accepts E10 fuel and is better for the environment without breaking the bank, then contact a member of our friendly team today who will be able to guide you through the process. It couldn't be easier!
