A lot of things are changing this summer and that includes the UK’s standard petrol grade.

This big change sees the introduction of the new grade of fuel E10, which will be arriving at the pumps in the near future.

E10 contains up to 10% renewable ethanol, therefore this move is set to help tackle climate change by reducing the number of carbon emissions produced by petrol-powered vehicles (PPVs).

It’s claimed that this change could cut transport CO2 emissions by 750,000 tonnes a year – or the equivalent of taking 350,000 cars off the road, or all the cars in North Yorkshire!

However, as with any new change, drawbacks will be expected and, with this, fuel economy may be affected. But we’re reassured to hear that it’s only expected to be around a 1% reduction. In addition to that, one further drawback is that E10 won’t be suitable for all petrol vehicles.

As I’ve just mentioned, E10 isn’t best suited for all petrol vehicles but it is compatible with 95% of PPVs, including all built since 2011, so it should be a fairly straightforward switch. However, if your vehicle isn’t compatible then you will still be able to use E5 you’ll just need to purchase the ‘Super’ grade option when filling up. The vehicles at risk are more than likely going to be the older, retro and classic models.

If all of that has gone straight over your head, then don’t worry because the Department of Transport has launched a media campaign called ‘Know Your Fuel’ to raise awareness of this change. With this campaign comes a handy little tool called the E10 vehicle checker that you can use to check your vehicle's compatibility before you get to the pumps. All you need is the car, bike or mopeds make, model, engine size and the year it was manufactured.

If you do have any additional questions or want further guidance, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e10-petrol-explained