Does E10 gasoline make cars perform less powerfully?

Prior to the nationwide rollout of E10 gasoline on June 1st, the Ministry of Industry and Trade published a document containing 85 questions and answers to address the most pressing concerns of the public regarding this fuel. One of the most common questions was whether E10 gasoline would make vehicles less responsive.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, it is difficult to notice a significant difference in performance when using E10 gasoline under normal conditions. The agency stated that tests conducted by domestic and international scientists , as well as practical use of E10 gasoline in countries that have adopted it for many years, have not shown any evidence of E10 damaging engines.

However, the Ministry of Industry and Trade also noted that in some cases, users may feel their vehicle is "weaker" after switching to E10. This could be related to the condition of the fuel system.

E10 gasoline has been widely available recently. (Photo: Minh Duc)

Therefore, if the fuel tank and fuel lines have rust or deposits, ethanol's higher solubility can dissolve these deposits, causing blockages and reducing the fuel flow into the combustion chamber, resulting in a weaker engine.

Therefore, the Ministry of Industry and Trade stated that the complaints from some people about their vehicles running "less powerfully" when using E10 gasoline may stem from fuel lines being affected by dirt and debris due to inadequate maintenance.

The motorcycle's fuel filter is clogged. (Photo: Hung Dao)

Regarding compatibility, the Ministry of Industry and Trade stated that most cars and motorcycles currently in circulation in Vietnam can use E10 gasoline. The only exceptions include one type of light truck manufactured between 1996 and 2023 (which has now ceased production) and a few older Suzuki motorcycle models whose compatibility with E10 fuel has not yet been confirmed.

Car owners are also advised that no engine adjustments are necessary when switching to E10, however, for older engines, it is advisable to consult with experts.

Other gasoline-powered engines such as lawnmowers, water pumps, leaf blowers, or agricultural machinery manufactured in recent years are considered compatible with this type of fuel.

Older car and motorcycle models, lawnmower engines, water pumps, leaf blowers, and agricultural machinery that use gasoline and whose compatibility with E10 gasoline cannot be confirmed are recommended to use E5 gasoline.

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/xang-e10-co-khien-xe-van-hanh-kem-boc-hon-ar1020909.html