Is our car safe to use gasoline blended with ethanol?

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Fuel stocks at private gas stations (Shell, BP, Vivo) are running low. The government asked them to buy base fuel from Pertamina, but BP and Vivo canceled their orders after finding 3.5% ethanol content, which didn’t meet their specifications. The issue has sparked public concern, as ethanol is seen to potentially affect vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

Is a gasoline–ethanol blend better?

• Engine performance: Gasoline + ethanol performs better because of its higher octane rating (ethanol ≈108).
• Fuel efficiency: Pure gasoline is better, delivering around 32 MJ/L compared to only 21 MJ/L for gasoline + ethanol.
• Engine impact: Pure gasoline is generally better and compatible with all engines. However, gasoline + ethanol carries a higher risk of corrosion since ethanol absorbs water and dissolves fuel residues.

In summary: ➡️ For performance and environmental friendliness → gasoline–ethanol blend is better. ➡️ For fuel economy and stability → pure gasoline is better.

So, why is there a policy to use ethanol in gasoline blends?

• 🛢️ Reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Ethanol is renewable, while crude oil is not. Blending helps diversify energy sources.
• 🌿 Lower greenhouse gas emissions. Ethanol combustion produces less CO₂ compared to pure gasoline, reducing overall carbon emissions.
• 🚜 Support local agriculture. It creates a new market for crops like sugarcane, corn, or cassava, helping rural economies.
• 💰 Reduce fuel imports and improve energy security. countries can produce ethanol domestically, reducing their exposure to global oil price fluctuations. Every day, Indonesia spends around US$100 million on oil and fuel imports.
• ⚗️ Improve octane rating. Ethanol has a higher octane number (≈108 RON), improving engine performance and reducing knocking.

Gasoline–ethanol blends boost engine performance and cut emissions, while pure gasoline offers better fuel efficiency and engine compatibility. Ethanol policies aim to reduce fossil fuel use, support local agriculture, and improve energy security despite some trade-offs.

Note: A broader study is needed regarding the profit/loss implications of the policy, industry readiness, and the supporting ecosystem to assess the effectiveness of ethanol–gasoline blending. However, several countries, such as the United States, Brazil, and others, have already implemented it.