Katerina Swanson
Diesel is the second most popular type of fuel in the UK, with over 16 million diesel cars on the road in 2018. The most common type of diesel is known as either city or low-sulphur, and it is the cheapest type of diesel. Premium diesel, on the other hand, burns quicker and more efficiently, delivering higher performance and a cleaner engine. Some of the most popular types of premium diesel in the UK include Shell V-Power diesel, BP Ultimate diesel, and Tesco Momentum 99.
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What You'll Learn
Premium diesel vs. regular diesel
Diesel is the second most popular type of fuel in the UK, with over 16 million diesel cars on the road in 2018. The two common types of diesel are regular diesel (low sulphur) and premium diesel.
Premium Diesel
Premium diesel, such as Shell V-Power diesel, is available at Shell fuel stations across the UK. It is more expensive than regular diesel, but it has added benefits. Premium diesel burns quicker and more efficiently, giving higher performance and a cleaner engine. It has a higher cetane number, better lubricity, and includes detergents that provide injector-cleaning capability. It also has added lubricants that help keep fuel system parts moving freely, extending the life of the fuel pump and other components.
Regular Diesel
Regular diesel, also known as Diesel #2, is the most common general-purpose fuel. It is cheaper than premium diesel, but it does not have the same performance-enhancing or engine-cleaning benefits. It is prone to gelling in freezing temperatures, unlike premium diesel, which performs better in cold weather.
The benefits of premium diesel include improved engine performance, fewer repairs, and reduced equipment downtime. However, the higher cost of premium diesel is a significant factor to consider. Some people choose to use premium diesel occasionally, especially in older vehicles, to improve engine performance and reduce the need for repairs. The decision to use premium or regular diesel may depend on factors such as budget, vehicle type, and local weather conditions.
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The benefits of premium diesel
In the UK, the most common types of diesel are regular diesel (low sulphur) and premium diesel. While some may argue that there is no need to use premium diesel, there are several benefits to using it.
Firstly, premium diesel can help improve the performance of your vehicle. This is because premium diesel burns quicker and more efficiently, resulting in higher performance and a cleaner engine. This can be especially beneficial for older cars or cars that only ever do short trips or idle a lot, such as taxis or police cars.
Secondly, using premium diesel can help to prevent costly engine repairs in the future. By clearing out any oily or sooty deposits from the engine and fuel system, premium diesel can keep your vehicle in better condition and improve its efficiency and economy.
Additionally, premium diesel can slow down algae growth in the fuel system, which is beneficial for vehicles that are not used frequently, such as campers or cars that are only driven occasionally.
It is worth noting that the benefits of premium diesel may vary depending on the vehicle. Modern cars, for example, may not see much improvement in fuel economy as they are already designed to be as efficient as possible. Similarly, the performance gains from using premium diesel may only be noticeable in high-performance vehicles.
Overall, while premium diesel comes at a higher cost, it can offer benefits in terms of performance, engine maintenance, and fuel efficiency, especially for certain types of vehicles.
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Supermarket diesel
Supermarkets are a popular choice for diesel in the UK because they are cheap and convenient. Tesco is the UK's largest supermarket chain, with fuel stations across the country. Tesco diesel is popular because it's affordable, convenient, and reliable. Sainsbury's City Diesel is another popular option, with some drivers reporting no issues with their vehicles even after several years of exclusive use. Other supermarkets that sell diesel include Asda, Morrisons, and Costco.
The quality of supermarket diesel has been questioned by some, who believe that it only meets a minimum standard and may not offer the same performance benefits as premium fuels. However, regulations in the UK ensure that the base fuel, or crude oil, is processed the same way across different brands, and the final product will not adversely affect vehicles. The main difference between supermarket and premium fuels lies in the additives used, which can affect the performance and efficiency of the fuel. Premium fuels may also burn quicker and more efficiently, resulting in higher performance and a cleaner engine.
Some drivers have reported mixed experiences with supermarket diesel, with some noticing a slight decrease in performance or mileage when compared to premium fuels. However, others have found no significant difference in performance or engine condition, even after using supermarket diesel exclusively for several years. It is worth noting that some premium fuel brands offer loyalty programs or apps that provide discounts and incentives, making them a more cost-effective option for some drivers.
Ultimately, the choice between supermarket and premium diesel depends on various factors, including vehicle type, performance requirements, budget, and personal preference. While premium fuels may offer slight performance advantages, supermarket diesel remains a popular and cost-effective option for many drivers in the UK.
It is always recommended to refer to the vehicle manufacturer's guidelines and seek advice from trusted mechanics or automotive specialists when choosing the best diesel fuel for your specific needs.
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Diesel additives
Diesel fuel additives are designed to improve the performance of diesel engines and reduce maintenance costs. They can be used in a range of vehicles, from cars to agricultural machinery. Diesel additives are particularly beneficial for older cars, as they can help improve engine performance and fuel efficiency.
There are several types of diesel additives available on the market, each serving a specific purpose. For instance, Diesel Extreme by Hot Shot's Secret is a cleaner that removes harmful internal and external diesel injector deposits, such as polymeric and waxy build-up. It combines a cetane booster, a fuel stabilizer, and a water demulsifier additive to maintain fuel system cleanliness and performance while reducing smoke.
Another additive, Everyday Diesel Treatment, also by Hot Shot's Secret, is designed for use at every fill-up. It contains a cetane improver to enhance engine performance and power. Similarly, AR6500 Diesel Treatment by Archoil boosts performance and fuel economy by improving cetane levels, enhancing lubricity, and keeping the fuel system clean. It also prevents carbon build-up in the turbo and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), which can lead to reduced engine efficiency and increased fuel consumption if left unchecked.
Diesel Winter Anti-Gel is an additive that helps diesel engines withstand cold temperatures. It improves cold starts, prevents icing and gelling, and reduces fuel line freeze. For emergency situations, Diesel Winter Rescue can be used to de-ice fuel filters and re-liquefy gelled fuel, restoring engine power and flow.
While these additives offer benefits, it's worth noting that the UK has regulations and practices in place to ensure that the fuel you receive won't harm your vehicle. The impact of additives may be marginal in everyday driving, and the choice ultimately depends on your budget and preferences.
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Diesel alternatives
Diesel is the second most popular type of fuel in the UK, with over 16 million diesel cars on the road in 2018. However, demand has dropped due to concerns over its environmental impact.
There are several alternative fuels that can be used instead of diesel. These include:
- Vegetable oil, or biodiesel (refined vegetable oil)
- Black diesel (recycled motor oil)
- Renewable diesel (a biomass-derived fuel)
- Hydrogen
- Natural gas
- Propane
- Hybrid fuel (combining fossil fuel with electricity)
- Electric
It is worth noting that some of these alternatives, such as vegetable oil and biodiesel, may require more work and storage than traditional diesel. Additionally, older diesel engines may be better suited for alternative fuels than newer models.
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Frequently asked questions
The best diesel fuel in the UK is HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil), also known as renewable diesel. HVO is sold by Phillips 66, Neste, Eni and LubiQ Fuels. Tests have shown that HVO reduces diesel particulate emissions by up to 80% and, because it is made from certified waste, it does not compete for precious food resources.
Premium diesel burns quicker and more efficiently, giving higher performance and a cleaner engine. Premium diesel is also more expensive than regular diesel.
Shell V-Power diesel is one of the most commonly used types of premium diesel and is available at Shell petrol stations throughout the UK.
