For fleet managers, deciding which type of fuel to use isn’t just about keeping vehicles on the road—it’s about finding the right balance between performance and cost efficiency. With options ranging from supermarket forecourts to premium branded fuels, the choice can feel overwhelming.
Most of us naturally gravitate toward the cheapest option, which often means supermarket fuel. Supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, and Morrisons frequently compete to offer the lowest prices, making them an attractive option for businesses looking to keep costs down. But does cheaper fuel compromise quality? And, if there is a difference, which option is best for your fleet?
Here’s what we’ve uncovered.
Fuel Quality: What You Need to Know
All petrol and diesel sold in the UK must meet strict British and European standards—E10 for petrol and EN 15940 for diesel. This ensures that any fuel, whether purchased at a supermarket or a branded station, is safe and compatible with your vehicles.
The difference lies in the additives. Branded fuels often include more advanced additives designed to improve engine cleanliness and performance. Supermarket fuels also have additives, but usually in smaller quantities.
What Is Supermarket Fuel?
Supermarket fuel is typically the cheapest option, thanks to competitive pricing strategies. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses looking to manage costs.
However, these fuels may lack the higher levels of detergents or performance-enhancing additives found in branded options. While this might not make a noticeable difference in the short term, over time, some fleet managers report concerns about reduced fuel efficiency or engine cleanliness.
What Is Branded Fuel?
Branded fuels, such as those from Shell or BP, come with a higher price tag, but they often include proprietary additives designed to:
- Enhance engine performance
- Minimise carbon deposits
- Improve fuel efficiency
These benefits can lead to smoother engine operations, better mileage, and reduced maintenance costs—advantages that may justify the extra expense, especially for fleets with older vehicles or high mileage requirements.
What Is Premium Fuel?
Premium fuels, also called “super” or “high-performance” fuels, have a higher octane or cetane rating. This means they’re designed to handle the demands of high-performance engines, such as those in sports cars or luxury vehicles.
For fleets with standard commercial vehicles, the benefits of premium fuel are less pronounced. However, over time, the added detergents in premium fuels can help keep engines cleaner and reduce wear and tear.
The simplest way to know what’s best for your fleet? Check your vehicle’s handbook for fuel recommendations.
What’s the Verdict?
- Supermarket fuel: An option that meets all safety and quality standards. May result in lower MPG scores, resulting in purchasing fuel more frequently.
- Branded fuel: Worth considering if your fleet vehicles have older engines or rack up high mileage. The added detergents can improve engine cleanliness and efficiency, potentially reducing maintenance costs.
Ultimately, both options are viable, and the best choice depends on your fleet’s specific needs. With the rising cost of living, supermarket fuel is a sensible, budget-friendly choice for many businesses. But if long-term performance and reduced wear and tear are priorities, branded fuel could be a worthwhile investment.
No matter which you choose, rest assured that all UK fuels meet stringent quality standards, so your fleet will be in good hands either way.
The Fuelwise Fuel Card is accepted at all major fuel brands across the UK and Ireland, totalling over 6,000 fuel stations. Learn more about the Fuelwise Fuel Card.
Marketing Manager at Fuelwise
Dominic has been covering the fuel and fleet management industry for over seven years, writing about Fuel Cards, Telematics, and Vehicle Cameras. In 2023 he was awarded the Excellence In Marketing award at the Causeway Chamber Business Awards, followed by the Best Use Of Social Media In Service/B2B at the 2024 NI Social Media Awards. You can connect with Dominic on LinkedIn here.
