The Automobile Association (AA) has issued guidance on the introduction of the new E10 petrol blend coming to Ireland this July, with some cars less compatible with it than others.
E10 petrol will replace E5 come July 1. E10 is made up of up to 10 per cent bioethanol, where as E5 was made up of 5 per cent.
The increase in bioethanol in petrol to E10 is one of several measures taken by the Government towards the achievement of 51 per cent reduction in transport carbon emissions by 2030, as set out in its climate action plan.
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Most cars in Ireland will run on this fuel with no noticeable change, however motorists may experience a small reduction in fuel economy, but not by much.
For most people with cars 20 years old or newer, there will be no issue.
However, AA Ireland Head of Communications, Paddy Comyn said: "Some owners do need to pay attention.
"But it isn’t the doomsday scenario painted in some quarters. Over on the AA Website, you will find a list of cars that are potentially not perfectly compatible with an E10 fuel blend.
"These include a handful of FSI engines from the Volkswagen Group, some older Renault models, and some old Alfa Romeos and Fiats. He stressed that the manufacturers of these cars said they will run fine on E10, but you might need to look at some areas when getting a regular service."
Classic car owners will remain unaffected.
For now, classic car owners are advised to potentially look at replacing fuel lines and other components that might suffer through prolonged use of E10. Users of older motorbikes should also be cautious. The same is true of many older petrol lawnmowers, Mr Comyn explained.
Wynn’s E10 Protector, sold in many places for around €15, will counteract any negative effects E10 might have on older vehicles.
When asked if there is a cause for concern, he stressed: "We would say no. If you service your car regularly and don’t leave it sitting idle for long periods of time, even cars which haven’t been homologated for E10 should be fine.
"If you have a classic car or motorbike that you intend to leave idle for longer spells, draining the fuel tanks could be advisable before storing."
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