Fill up your car for €30: we'll show you how!
Fuel prices are not coming down. SP95 is flirting with €2.40, diesel too, and every time you fill up it's the same crushing blow. This article is taken from our YouTube video (available at the end of the article), in which we tried to show in concrete terms what a change to E85 would mean: not with theoretical figures, but with a real car, a real pump and a receipt.
The result: 32 litres for €26.39. We explain how.
A lot is being published on ethanol at the moment
This article is part of a series we're producing on E85 conversion. If you want to go further :
E85 conversion: reprogramming or box?
Shiftech offers two approaches to converting a petrol vehicle to ethanol.
Engine reprogramming acts directly on the original ECU. No intervention on the wiring harness, no additional box, no modification of the fuel circuit. This is the solution chosen for the Ford Puma in this case, whose 1L EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine is not compatible with the approved units on the market.
The approved ethanol box is installed alongside the existing injection system. For compatible vehicles, it can be used to modify the vehicle registration document, with a discount or free of charge depending on the case.
In both cases, the car is systematically put through its paces on our power bench (Rotronics 1200 bhp), in a closed enclosure with ventilation. We log before and after, to make sure that the vehicle is indeed producing its original power, and often a little more: the high octane rating of ethanol has an effect.
32 litres for €26.39: direct refuelling
Our customer's Ford Puma arrived with 30 km on the clock. Converted on delivery directly to us, it has never run on SP98.
at the filling station: E85 displayed at €0.81/L. SP95 at €2.37. Diesel at €2.26.
Fill up the tank: 32 litres, €26.39.
A full tank (estimated at 40 litres) costs around €32. This compares with €95 for SP95 and over €90 for diesel for the same volume. The cost of conversion on this model: €599. This will pay for itself in just a few thousand kilometres.
What you need to know before converting
Consumption is increasing. Ethanol contains less energy per litre than petrol. You can expect to consume between 20 and 25% more. With E85 costing two to three times less than SP95, the calculation remains largely favourable.
On older vehicles, the low-pressure pump in the fuel tank may be sensitive to ethanol and may need to be replaced as a precaution during the conversion process. This is a known precaution, not a hindrance: the centre will systematically assess it and advise you if replacement is necessary.
Winter starting takes a little longer on a converted vehicle, about 2 seconds longer in very cold weather. This is not a malfunction; it's linked to the different flash point of ethanol.
To check the compatibility of your vehicle, the Shiftech configurator details the options available model by model.
FAQ: your questions about E85 conversion
Can my diesel vehicle be converted to E85?
No. E85 conversion is reserved for petrol engines. Ethanol and diesel are chemically and technically incompatible: diesel injection systems cannot work with ethanol.
What is the difference between direct and indirect injection?
Both types of engine are compatible with E85 conversion. The technical solution chosen (box or reprogramming) depends in particular on the type of injection in your vehicle. Your Shiftech centre will help you choose the right option.
Does E85 consume more fuel?
Yes, between 20 and 25%. Ethanol contains less energy per litre than petrol. With E85 costing on average two to three times less than SP95, the balance remains largely positive over the year.
Can I run on E85 without converting?
No. An unconverted petrol vehicle running on E85 runs the risk of not starting up, especially in cold weather. In addition to not starting the engine, running on ethanol without conversion can damage certain engine components not designed for this fuel. Conversion is essential before switching to E85.
Is E85 conversion reliable?
Yes. On some older vehicles, the low-pressure pump in the tank may be sensitive to ethanol. Your Shiftech centre will assess this during the conversion and recommend that it be replaced as a precaution if necessary. This is a known precaution, not a hindrance.
Can E85 conversion be combined with power gains?
Yes, Shiftech offers Flex+, which combines ethanol conversion with engine reprogramming to boost power. Ask your centre if your vehicle is eligible.
What is the difference between an approved box and reprogramming from an administrative point of view?
The approved ethanol box has been approved by the government. It can be used to change the vehicle registration document, with the cost of the change either reduced or waived, depending on the circumstances. This is often the reason for choosing compatible recent vehicles.
Direct reprogramming on the ECU does not benefit from this approval. It is nevertheless possible to declare the fuel change to your insurance company and to put together a specific file with the DREAL to regularise the vehicle's administrative situation.
Your Shiftech centre will tell you which solution is available for your model and will help you with the formalities.
Explanatory Youtube video
FILL UP FOR €30 WITH E85 ETHANOL!
Do you want to convert your vehicle to ethanol?
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