E10 Fuel & Classic Cars: What Does It Mean For Them?
With the introduction of E10 fuel in September 2021 as part of the government’s drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to a net zero by 2050, there could be a threat to classic car ownership if fuel is no longer available, or faces an increase in demand. The biggest threat to old cars since the switch from leaded to unleaded fuel, the drive for E10 through the UK’s petrol stations and pumps could be a huge problem for owners of modern classic cars, such as Porsche and Ferrari.
What Is E10 Fuel?
E5, or 95% ethanol content, fuel was introduced in 2019, however from September 2021, you’ll start to see E10 as the new standard fuel. It’s a renewable fuel based on crops, so is more environmentally friendly than traditional fossil fuels.
Why Is It Being Introduced?
It’s no secret that we need to do a lot to protect our planet and whilst electric cars such as Tesla are starting to help with eco-friendly motoring, there is an aim to reduce CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions by 750,000 tonnes per year, which is essentially the same as taking 350,000 cars off the road. Given the government’s target to reduce CO2 emissions to net zero by 2050, we must collectively work to solve this problem now.
What’s the Problem for Classic Cars?
It can get quite scientific, but most cars will run on E5 without significant problems – but this is not the case for some older vehicles and classic cars. Water is absorbed from the atmosphere which can cause condensation in your fuel tank, fuel line and carburettors – causing corrosion. It’s likely to eat through rubber, plastic and fibreglass so it can cause long term or greater problems because there is a higher concentration of ethanol in E10.
How Many Cars Are Affected?
Motoring membership body the RAC suggests that up to 600,000 vehicles on the road aren’t compatible with e10 fuel which will include a number of modern classic cars and classic models. If a car was made before 2002, it is advised that you shouldn’t use E10 – and it can even affect cars made up until 2011.
How Can I Find Out if My Car Can Run on E10?
The Department for Transport has issued guidance about E10 petrol and they have created a helpful compatibility tracker to help you see if your classic or modern classic car will be impacted by the change to E10 fuel. However, many manufacturers of classic cars are not listed in the vehicle checker. Where older brands are no longer trading, the Department for Transport cannot provide specific information on vehicle compatibility, so it’s wise to proceed with caution. Do not fill up your classic car with E10 fuel unless you have confirmation that it is compatible.
If your classic car isn’t listed in the vehicle checker, you should continue to use E5 (97+ octane or super unleaded) grade of petrol, which will remain available in the ‘super’ grade.
We’d also recommend you contact your classic vehicle owners’ clubs and associations, or the dealership where you purchased your classic car as they should be able to provide you with advice.
Here are some links to organisations who might be able to help you to find out more about E10 Fuel and Classic Cars:
What Can I Do To Protect My Classic Car?
Unfortunately classic car owners could face costly preventative maintenance if they don’t use ethanol free fuel or change the materials that don’t like ethanol.
Guy Lachlan, MD of Classic Oils says: “If you are in any doubt about your rubber fuel lines, change them. Get rid of your fibreglass petrol tank and install an aluminium one. The other thing ethanol really doesn’t like is solder. If you are running a soldered float in your carburettor still then think about carrying a spare – they’re generally quite easy to change.” Experts have also warned that even modern classics with turbocharged engines could be impacted by the switch.
What if I Fill Up With E10 by Mistake?
Fortunately, it’s not like putting diesel into a petrol car, so if you put E10 fuel into a classic car or modern classic, you’ll simply need to top up with E5 as soon as you can (once you’ve used a third of the tank). It shouldn’t cause any lasting damage, it could simply be harder to start from cold. It’s best not to put the car into storage until the E5 fuel has been topped up, advises the RAC.
If you would like to have a conversation about how you can begin your journey into classic car ownership, then Fast Car Finance can help you with classic car finance. Please contact me directly on awise@fcfinance.co.uk or on 01635 785 400.
I post regularly about the amazing cars we have helped our clients to buy on LinkedIn, so feel free to connect with me on there if you want to start a conversation about classic car finance.
