4 common types of fuel to consider
Choosing the right type of fuel can improve the overall performance of the vehicle along with the driving experience. While gasoline remains the most common option, many vehicles today use diesel or ethanol. Although fuel economy, cost, and engine type are common considerations, the environmental impact is one of the key factors influencing the choice of fuel or gas. So, here is a look at common types of fuel and sustainability trends to expect:
Types of fuels
It is essential to have some basic knowledge of fuel types for drivers to make informed decisions that benefit the vehicle. Here are some types to consider
Gasoline: It is one of the most common automobile fuels used widely in the country. Gasoline is a fossil fuel made with petroleum. Most gas stations nearby usually sell the following three grades of gasoline based on their octane level:
- Regular gas with the lowest octane rating (a measure of fuel stability) at 87
- Midgrade gas with an octane rating of 89 to 90
- Premium gas with an octane rating between 91 and 94
While regular and midgrade gas is meant for most standard cars, premium gas is ideal for high-performance cars.
Diesel: Today, about 3.85 million barrels of diesel fuel are used per day in the country, making it another popular option. Diesel is also made up of petroleum but is refined using a different method than that for refining gasoline. Large industrial trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles use diesel. Diesel fuel offers a higher fuel economy and lower carbon dioxide production than gasoline, making it a great option. While diesel can, at times, be more expensive than gasoline, diesel fuel has a higher energy density compared to other liquid fuels, i.e., it packs more energy in every gallon than gas fuel, making it a more economical option. One can find gasoline and diesel at all gas stations nearby. However, to save money, one can use fuel and gas coupons on refills and services like an oil change.
Ethanol: Ethanol is a less common option in the country. It is an additive for other fuel and gas types. Ethanol can be very cost-effective, and it is made from renewable sources like sugar cane and corn. This is one of the reasons that many car companies are manufacturing ethanol-powered vehicles.
Biodiesel: This is renewable, biodegradable liquid fuel s made from vegetable oils and animal fats or recycled cooking grease. Biodiesel emissions are lower than those from petroleum diesel, making it a more eco-friendly option for vehicle owners. Diesel vehicles can generally utilize a low percentage of biodiesel without any engine modification. However, higher levels of this fuel may require certain modifications in the engine design.
Sustainability trends in the industry
While fuel in itself has an environmental impact, its production and extraction also contribute to a variety of environmental concerns. So, over the years, fuel and gas companies have come up with a few steps toward enhancing sustainability, like improving freshwater usage. Here, the aim is to recycle a large portion of the freshwater they use in the oil production process. However, they also continue to explore alternatives to decrease the usage of freshwater and increase the usage of non-potable water to 100%. Additionally, methane leaks are one of the primary causes of global warming. Many fuel and gas companies aim to reduce leaks by repairing or replacing malfunctioning equipment and using better components.