BBM mixed with 10% ethanol, additional costs for motorcycle owners

Changes in BBM Policy: The Effect of Ethanol on Vehicles

The Indonesian government is currently designing a new policy regarding fuel oil (BBM) by mixing 10 percent ethanol into gasoline, known as E10. The purpose of this program is to reduce dependence on oil imports while providing more environmentally friendly fuel.

However, behind the positive potential, the use of ethanol mixed fuel also raises a number of questions, especially about its effect on the performance of vehicle engines, especially motorcycles. Wahyu Budhi, training analyst at PT Wahana Makmur Sejati, explained that the use of ethanol does have two sides. There are benefits, but there are also risks that need to be considered.

The negative effects of using ethanol include the potential to make the vehicle more wasteful. This is caused by a lower energy content per liter and can cause damage to engine components, gasoline hoses, and rust in the tank, especially in old vehicles that are not designed for high ethanol content.

Ethanol absorbs water (hygroscopic). If stored for too long, a mixture of fuel with ethanol can trigger corrosion or rust on the metal parts of the fuel system. This condition is more risky to old motors that have not used ethanol-resistant materials.

However, Wahyu also emphasized that it does not mean that the mixture of ethanol does not have a positive side. On the other hand, in terms of the environment and the efficiency of combustion, ethanol actually has a better effect. The use of ethanol in fuel has a positive effect in the form of increasing octane, more complete combustion, and reducing toxic exhaust emissions such as CO and HC.

With a higher octane, the combustion process in the engine room becomes more optimal. As a result, the engine feels smoother, more stable power, and harmful exhaust emissions can be suppressed.

Technically, the latest motorcycles are actually more prepared to face ethanol fuel. The fuel system has been designed with corrosion-resistant materials and combustion sensors that can adjust the air and fuel mixture automatically.

For old motorcycle users, it’s better to be more careful. It is recommended not to store fuel in the tank for too long, and routinely carry out maintenance on the fuel system. With these steps, users can minimize the risk of damage due to the use of ethanol mixed fuel.

Tips for Old Motorcycle Users

• Avoid storing gasoline in the tank for too long.
• Perform periodic checks on the fuel system.
• Use fuel according to vehicle specifications.
• Make sure the gas tank is in good condition and free of rust.
• If possible, use ethanol-free fuel for vehicles not designed for E10.

Conclusion

The E10 program has great potential to support environmental sustainability and reduce dependence on oil imports. However, vehicle users, especially motorcycles, must pay attention to the long-term effects of using this fuel. Although modern motorcycles are better prepared to face the E10, old motorcycle users need to be more vigilant and carry out routine maintenance so that the engine remains optimal and durable.