Cars

Biofuels

Updated: 11 Dec 2007
Biofuels-hero

Introduction

Biofuel has arrived - but can it save the planet?

New Zealand's first approved biofuel has arrived in the form of Gull Force 10, and all oil companies will be required to sell biofuel from 2008.

We take a closer look at some of the issues involved, including claims of ethanol engine damage and lack of sustainability.

Tips for using ethanol fuel

  • Make sure your car is suitable - check the AA list on the Gull website. This list covers models new in New Zealand; but the Imported Motor Vehicle Dealers Association says that if your used import was designed to use 98-octane fuel then it'll be OK on Gull Force 10.

  • Look for the biofuels label to ensure good-quality fuel.

  • Make the first fill a full one, in case there's a small amount of water in your tank. Ethanol can cope with small amounts of water - but not with big amounts (it separates out and dissolves into the water).

  • Avoid very cold conditions while using the first fill. Water/ethanol mixtures can separate out in the tank or fuel lines more easily when it's very cold.


Where not to use ethanol fuel blends

Ethanol blends are not suitable for use in:

  • boats - because of potential water contamination
  • aircraft - because automotive fuels are not approved for aviation use
  • older (usually pre-1995) carburetted engines unless you get them retuned.
Other engines

It's OK to use ethanol blends in most small engines like lawnmowers and chainsaws. But make sure you don't leave the fuel tank empty - it creates condensation (the water/ethanol problem).

Tip: Refill the mower immediately after use. If the engine or fuel is stored for more than two months without use, you'll need to replace the fuel with fresh product. You should replace any sort of petrol after three months anyway, because it too deteriorates in storage.


More information


Report by Hamish Wilson