there are differences in the additives that go into the fuel – such as detergents. Detergents are added to prevent the build-up of deposits in the engine which improves the car's performance. Supermarket fuel will also contain this, but most likely less of it than in branded fuel.
The fuel you find in supermarkets has the same regulations as premium sellers. And they're held to the same quality and safety standards. So, although it's cheaper, you can be reassured that you aren't purchasing a harmful or unsafe product.
Fuel types explained
We've established that brand makes little difference to a fuel's quality, but regardless of where you fill up, you'll find a variety of different fuel types to choose from. It's important to know what's in each type so you can pick what's best for your car.
These brands aggressively cut their fuel prices to undercut their rivals and get customers through the doors and into the aisles. After all, most people will drive to a supermarket to do their big weekly shop anyway, so it makes sense to offer a convenient extra incentive to opt for a certain brand over another.
Power petrol octane number is higher, which helps to reduce engine-knocking and detonation. This leads to better combustion. High octane petrol also helps the engine to work at full capacity and leads to better fuel efficiency. Remember that power petrol is beneficial for vehicles that have high compression systems.
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Otherwise known as Ultra-Premium by some brands, 98 is the highest-octane fuel currently available in Australia. Unleaded 98 provides higher engine power and overall performance in comparison to 91 and 95. It is also responsible for less pollution, according to providers.
Premium unleaded 98 is specifically designed for high performance engines. If your car requires premium fuel, 98 will definitely work, and may provide you with increased performance and mileage over 95. Some vehicles must only use 98. Unlike the previous fuel types, E10 is a blend of unleaded petrol and 10% ethanol.
Shell's tests have shown that these deposits rob both an engine's performance and its efficiency, which is why all drivers can benefit from using Shell V-Power, whether they own a fast car or something more focused on practicality and fuel economy.
Hydrogen has the highest calorific value which is 150000 kJ kg - 1 .
Among the given options, hydrogen is the fuel with highest calorific value of 150000 kJ/kg. Therefore, hydrogen is considered as the most efficient fuel.
FUEL FACT: The base fuel is the same for all companies. In fact, it usually comes from the same tanks at the local fuel refinery or distribution centre. What varies is the additives package that goes into the fuel.
Basically, it is still fine changing to another fuel if just for one time filling only during an empty tank situation. The reason is, all types of fuel have the same constituent elements on the hydrocarbon chain, so it is relatively safe if 1-2 types of fuel mixed in one tank.
It's really up to you. If you're more comfortable paying extra for a branded fuel, fill up with branded diesel. If you would rather shop price, you'll be ok too because unbranded diesel is safe for your truck too.
If 91 is used in cars requiring higher octane fuel, you run the risk of pre-igniting or "knocking". This occurs when the petrol combusts early and pushes down against a piston while it is still moving upwards during the compression stroke.
Mixing the grades to get 91 or so shouldn't hurt, but it probably isn't saving you much money. Using anything higher than your manual recommends probably won't help your car's performance – but using lower might save you a few bucks, Leroux says. If you notice knocking, you should switch back.
High-performance vehicles typically have higher compression ratios in their engines which respond better to higher octane fuel, meaning that they will give better performance running on premium unleaded.
It's a lot about additives. I rate BP Ultimate diesel as best all-round for fuel economy as well as fuel system treatment. Shell V-Power diesel has the best lubricity for the fuel injection pump but does not achieve quite the same economy.
The answer is simple: they just have very loyal customers. To purchase their gas, you have to be a member, and membership sales make up about 75 percent of the chain's profit.
Which fuels have the longest shelf life? Propane, alcohol, wood, and charcoal are examples of good emergency storage fuels that can be stored indefinitely and still remain viable.
According to NRMA motoring expert Jack Haley, on average 95 RON can give around 4 per cent lower fuel consumption than 91, assuming the engine computer adjusts to take advantage of the octane difference. Using 98 might give 3 per cent reduction over 95, again assuming the computer adjusts the engine parameters.
It's absolutely fine to mix unleaded and super-unleaded petrol. Whether you put a tank of super in every few times you fill up to flush through the engine, or you top up the tank with £20 of the more expensive fuel, it won't do any damage to your engine.
A way of remembering this is like the Olympics – 91 is bronze, 95 is silver and 98 is gold. Generally, the higher the number the better the fuel. But because manufacturers optimise their engine tuning for a specific RON, it's important to fill your car with the right one. “Most cars can run on 91,” says Gisella.