New greener E10 petrol now available: Here’s what you need to know

Fuel pumps across the UK have today introduced a new greener grade of petrol called E10, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps announces

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced that fuel pumps across the UK will, as of today (1st September 2021), serve a greener grade of petrol known as E10.

E10 petrol is blended with up to 10% renewable ethanol and made up of materials such as low-grade grains, sugars and waste wood.

Over 95% of all petrol vehicles will be compatible with E10 and it will not be more expensive than current standard petrol prices, which it replaces.

You can check to see if your car is compatible here: Free online E10 checker.

Cut CO₂ emissions & boost jobs

It is expected to reduce transport CO₂ emissions by 750,000 tonnes per year, which will help the UK reach its climate change goals as it prepares to host COP26.

The introduction of E10 will boost job opportunities in the northeast of England, creating around 200 skilled jobs, and will also support the agriculture sector, helping the UK build a new green economy.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said:

“Every journey matters as we drive forward the green industrial revolution, which is why the rollout of E10 is so important. It’ll help us cut road greenhouse gas emissions and meet our ambitious net-zero targets.

“Although more and more drivers are switching to electric, there are steps we can take today to reduce emissions from the millions of vehicles already on our roads – the small switch to E10 petrol will reduce greenhouse gas emissions as we accelerate towards a greener transport future.”

Edmund King OBE, AA president, said

“This is a positive and simple step to help reduce the carbon impact from road transport. While the vast majority of vehicles will be unaffected by the change, it is important for owners of older cars to use the government’s vehicle checker to see if they can use E10.

“Even if E10 is put in a non-compliant vehicle, drivers should not panic and can simply put super unleaded in their tank at the next available opportunity.”