When you pull into a filling station, either at home or abroad, you might be surprised by the variety of fuel types available today. The days of simply choosing between petrol or diesel are long gone. So, what are all these different fuels, and which one is appropriate for your vehicle?

Here’s a straightforward guide to the types of fuel available in Australia to help you make an informed decision about what fuel to use in your car. 

How Many Types of Fuels in Australia?

1. Unleaded Petrol (91 RON)

Unleaded petrol, or ULP (91 RON), is the most common and basic petrol type in Australia, suitable for most everyday vehicles. With a Research Octane Number (RON) of 91, it’s often the most affordable option for regular cars without high-performance engines.

Pros:

• Widely Available: Most petrol stations in Australia offer ULP, making it easy to find.
• Affordable: It’s generally the lowest-cost fuel option for petrol engines.

Cons:

• Lower Performance: Cars with high-performance engines or turbochargers may experience lower power and efficiency with 91 RON fuel.
• Environmental Impact: ULP emits more CO₂ compared to some alternative fuels, contributing to pollution.

2. Premium Unleaded Petrol (95 RON and 98 RON)

Premium unleaded petrol options, including 95 RON and 98 RON, are designed for cars with engines that demand higher octane fuel. These fuels reduce “knocking” (or premature combustion), which can improve engine longevity and performance.

Pros:

• Improved Efficiency and Performance: Suitable for high-performance engines, which benefit from higher-octane fuels.
• Cleaner Combustion: 95 and 98 RON tend to burn cleaner, which may reduce engine deposits over time.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: These fuels are typically more expensive than regular unleaded.
• Not Necessary for All Vehicles: For cars that only require 91 RON, using 95 or 98 won’t provide much additional benefit.

3. E10 Ethanol-Blended Petrol

E10 is a blend of 90% unleaded petrol and 10% ethanol, a renewable biofuel. It’s an environmentally friendly option but is only compatible with certain vehicles. Many cars manufactured after 2006 can safely use E10, but it’s crucial to check your vehicle’s manual or the government’s E10 compatibility list.

Pros:

• Lower Emissions: E10 emits fewer greenhouse gases than pure unleaded petrol.
• Renewable Resource: Ethanol is derived from renewable materials like sugarcane, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Cons:

• Lower Fuel Efficiency: E10 generally delivers lower fuel economy than regular petrol.
• Vehicle Compatibility: Not all vehicles are compatible with E10, particularly older models, so double-check your vehicle’s requirements.

4. Diesel

Diesel is commonly used for larger vehicles, such as SUVs, 4×4 trucks, and commercial vehicles, as it provides high torque and fuel efficiency. Diesel fuel is made for vehicles equipped with diesel engines, which operate differently from petrol engines, achieving higher fuel efficiency over long distances.

Pros:

• High Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines generally provide greater fuel economy than petrol engines, especially for long-distance driving.
• Longer Engine Life: Diesel engines are often built to be more durable, extending the lifespan of vehicles that run on diesel.

Cons:

• Environmental Impact: Diesel engines produce more nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which can negatively impact air quality. Although newer diesel vehicles are equipped with better environmental filters, it is still necessary to fill AdBlue to achieve optimal performance..
• Fuel Cost: Diesel prices can fluctuate significantly, and in some areas, diesel can be more expensive than unleaded.

5. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

LPG is a type of gas fuel that has seen fluctuating popularity in Australia. Although it was once widely used, fewer new vehicles are now designed to run on LPG. Many vehicles require a conversion to be LPG-compatible, but for those who frequently drive longer distances, LPG offers a cost-effective alternative.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: LPG is often cheaper than petrol and diesel, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Lower Emissions: LPG burns cleaner than petrol, contributing to lower emissions of CO₂ and pollutants.

Cons:

• Limited Availability: With fewer LPG-compatible vehicles on the market, not all petrol stations offer LPG.
• Conversion Cost: Converting a vehicle to run on LPG can be costly, and the infrastructure required may make it impractical for some.

6. Electric Vehicles (EVs)

While not a fuel in the traditional sense, electric vehicles (EVs) are increasingly popular in Australia due to their environmental benefits and evolving infrastructure. EVs rely on electricity from the grid, often using lithium-ion batteries that can be charged at home or at public charging stations.

Pros:

• Zero Emissions: EVs produce no tailpipe emissions, which is beneficial for urban air quality and environmental sustainability.
• Lower Operating Costs: Electricity is generally cheaper than petrol or diesel, and EVs typically have lower maintenance costs since they have fewer moving parts.

Cons:

• Charging Infrastructure: Although Australia is expanding its EV charging network, some areas, particularly rural regions, may still lack charging stations.
• Upfront Cost: EVs generally have higher upfront purchase prices, though government rebates and lower operating costs can offset this over time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Fuel

1. Engine Type and Vehicle Requirements

• Consult your vehicle’s manual to determine the required fuel type, as using the wrong fuel may void warranties or damage the engine. High-performance engines generally benefit from higher-octane petrol.

2. Fuel Availability

• In remote or rural areas, certain fuel types, such as LPG or premium unleaded, may not be readily available, which can impact your choice.

3. Environmental Impact

• If reducing your carbon footprint is important, consider fuels with lower emissions, such as E10 or electricity.

4. Budget and Driving Habits

• For drivers covering long distances, diesel or LPG may be more cost-effective over time, while urban drivers may find petrol or EVs more convenient and economical.

5. Performance Needs

• If you drive a high-performance vehicle, premium fuels like 95 RON or 98 RON can optimize performance. However, for regular commutes, standard unleaded or E10 might be adequate.

Conclusion: What is the Best Fuel for Your Car?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for the best fuel. Each type has unique benefits and limitations, so the ideal choice depends on your vehicle’s specifications, driving habits, and environmental preferences. Whether you prefer the affordability of 91 RON, the efficiency of diesel, or the sustainability of electric power, understanding the pros and cons of each option can help you fuel smarter.

As Australia continues to expand its support for electric vehicles and explore renewable fuel options, drivers have more flexibility and choice than ever before. Remember to stay updated with fuel compatibility for your vehicle and choose a fuel that aligns with both your needs and budget. This way, you’ll ensure the longevity of your vehicle while also contributing to a more sustainable driving future in Australia.