Yes—but barely. Ethanol has less energy per litre than petrol. So E10 gives you roughly 1-3% worse fuel economy. That means you’ll visit the pump about one extra time per year. Hardly a crisis.
But here’s the kicker: E5 can cost 10-15 pence more per litre. So you’re paying more for a tiny fuel-economy bonus. That’s like buying organic kale because you think it cures hiccups. The math rarely works out.
The real win for E5? Performance cars love it. Sporty engines tuned for high compression can knock on E10. That “knock” is pre-ignition—a tiny explosion before it’s time. Not good. E5’s higher octane rating smooths things out.
Motorists may choose to be 'selfish' and opt for E5 instead of E10
Your lawnmower, chainsaw, or weed whacker? Never use E10. Small engines with plastic fuel tanks hate ethanol. It eats them alive. Use E5 or special ethanol-free fuel, or you’ll be cursing at a dead mower.
What about the environment?
E10 is obviously greener. It reduces CO2 emissions by about 2% per litre. That’s like not eating one cheeseburger a year. Small, but every bit helps. Plus, ethanol comes from plants, so it’s renewable—sort of.
But here’s the twist: Growing corn for ethanol uses fertiliser, water, and land that could grow food. Some scientists argue the eco-benefits are overrated. It’s not a perfect solution—just a better one than pure petrol.
And now for a truly bizarre fact: Your car can actually run on pure ethanol. Brazil sells E100 at pumps. But your engine needs modifications. Otherwise, you’ll get a sad, smoky hiccup. So E10 is like training wheels for greener fuel.
