Real-world experience began to replace initial concerns.
Ms. Ha Thu, 27 years old, an office worker in Hanoi , who used E10 RON95 gasoline for the first time in 2026, shared: “Initially, I was a little worried about switching to E10, but after some time driving, the car still runs well, the engine starts smoothly, and there is no steering wheel vibration. Shifting gears and releasing the gas pedal makes the car roll more easily.”
After more than six months of piloting, E10 has been received more positively.
Meanwhile, Mr. Phu Hoan (Phu Thuong ward), a ride-hailing driver, switched to using E10 fuel in mid-May. After a period of testing, he said he saved money compared to using conventional gasoline, as E10 is about 600 VND/liter cheaper than RON 95-III.
"The engine runs smoothly and produces less emissions, so I feel confident using it regularly. If I switch entirely to E10, I'll save about 100,000-200,000 VND on gasoline each month compared to before," said Mr. Hoan.
Previously, Petrolimex announced that its network of gas stations had been selling E10 gasoline since the end of April, reaching approximately 80% coverage by May 15th, and expected to complete the conversion to selling E10 gasoline today (May 20th).
According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade , E10 bioethanol is a fuel consisting of 10% bioethanol and 90% traditional gasoline. Ethanol in Vietnam is mainly produced from dried cassava chips, molasses, and agricultural by-products through a fermentation process.
Because ethanol has a high octane rating of up to 109, when blended with gasoline, it helps the fuel resist knocking better and supports more efficient combustion in the engine. Studies show that E10 gasoline can help reduce harmful emissions such as CO and HC by about 20-30% compared to conventional gasoline, while also contributing to reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Many major fuel distributors have begun transitioning their retail systems ahead of the official implementation. Since May 15th, nearly 1,000 PV OIL stores have been selling E10 gasoline.
In countries such as the Philippines, Thailand, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, E10 is used as the standard fuel sold at gas stations due to its ability to help reduce harmful emissions from vehicles and decrease reliance on petroleum fuels.
In Vietnam, starting June 1st, E10 gasoline will be implemented nationwide according to Circular 50/2025. Unleaded gasoline will be blended into E10 gasoline for circulation throughout the country. E5 RON 92 gasoline will continue to be used until the end of 2030 to suit some older motorcycle models.
However, experts also note that the actual driving experience depends not only on the type of fuel, but also on many other factors such as engine condition, fuel system tightness, vehicle age, and regular maintenance, such as tire pressure.
For vehicles manufactured in recent years, the fuel system is often designed to be compatible with ethanol-blended fuel. Meanwhile, for older vehicles, regular inspections and maintenance are still considered crucial to ensure consistent performance when using higher ethanol-containing fuels.
"The motorbike I'm riding was left to me by my mother; she bought it in 2011. I've noticed that after switching to the new type of gasoline, I refuel less often each month, even though the distance I travel remains the same," said Anh Thu (20 years old, a university student in Hanoi).
However, despite the environmental benefits, increasing the ethanol content in fuel still raises questions among some users who are not yet familiar with the product regarding its compatibility with vehicles and its long-term operational stability.
Ms. Minh Thanh, residing in Tay Ho ward, stated that on the morning of May 20th, she stopped at a gas station near her home to refuel, but all the pumps had switched to selling E10. When she inquired with the staff, she was informed that the station no longer sold RON 95 gasoline, so she had to find another gas station.
"I'm still worried about potential problems like engine stalling, overheating, or damage to the engine when switching fuel types," Mr. Thanh said, adding that he would only consider switching to E10 if there were no other options.
Currently, consumers save less than 3% on fuel costs when switching to E10 compared to RON 95-III. According to some people, if the price of E10 becomes significantly more competitive and attractive than conventional gasoline, people will proactively choose it and form a habit of using the new fuel.
Thus, in addition to environmental factors, users are increasingly concerned about stability, operational capability, and long-term operating costs.
Tips for safely switching to E10 gasoline.
With E10 RON95 gasoline set to be widely used nationwide starting June 1, 2026, proactively acquiring knowledge is considered a necessary step for users to adapt smoothly to this transition period.
Besides technical factors, users are also advised to maintain a habit of monitoring fuel consumption, maintenance frequency, and signs of abnormal operation during the initial transition period. This is considered a practical approach that helps users proactively assess the vehicle's condition and optimize fuel efficiency in daily operation.
According to experts, users should first check fuel compatibility information as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, especially for older vehicles. Regular maintenance and inspection of the fuel system, fuel lines, rubber seals, or fuel filter also help minimize risks arising from the use of fuels with higher ethanol content.
With E10 becoming a widely used fuel nationwide, proactive adaptation by users, such as updating technical information and maintaining regular maintenance, will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable operating experience and sustainable fuel efficiency over time.
In fact, from August 2025, E10 gasoline will be piloted for sale by the Vietnam National Petroleum Group (Petrolimex) and the Vietnam Oil Corporation (PVOIL) in three major cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hai Phong.
From the end of April, Petrolimex began widely selling E10 gasoline throughout its system. After half a month, about 80% of the company's stores were selling E10, and it is expected to complete the sale of this type of gasoline by May 20th.
Source: https://vtv.vn/nguoi-dan-dan-don-nhan-xang-sinh-hoc-e10-100260518143158148.htm
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