Inflation and the loss of purchasing power forced Belgians to make choices. At the pump, some therefore decide to turn to 95 petrol, which is cheaper than 98. There is, however, a less expensive solution, but which has not yet been authorized politically: ethanol, which is widely used in France. Its price does not exceed 1 euro per litre.
The prices are only going up right now. And this inflation inevitably leads to a loss of purchasing power for Belgians, who are therefore forced to make choices for the sake of economy. At the pump, in particular, some decide to turn to 95 petrol, which is 20 cents cheaper per liter than 98. On a full tank, that obviously makes a difference. “I always wear the 95, because it’s cheaper”we also confirm some customers at the gas station.
The price difference is explained by the fact that gasoline 98 is a more refined product. “The refining cost is higher and there is less demand for 98 than 95”, underlines Olivier Neirynck, spokesperson for the Belgian Federation of fuel and fuel traders. But is it really a good idea to favor 95 petrol? And in which case should one abstain? “For the majority of Mr. and Mrs. Everybody’s vehicles, engine manufacturers allow the use of the 95 E10. Conversely, for luxury vehicles and large engines, car manufacturers recommend the 98”explains the spokesperson for the Belgian Federation of Fuel and Fuel Dealers.
A less expensive solution
There is an even cheaper solution: ethanol, which does not exceed one euro per litre. Its marketing is however not authorized in Belgium, but nevertheless “widespread” in France. “All cross-border Belgians today have every interest in crossing the border, going to France and filling up on the E85”continues Olivier Neirynck. “The price difference, for the French, is quite exceptional”he adds.
To do this, it is necessary to place a small box at the level of the motor. However, count 200 to 300 euros per piece, excluding labor. “When we see the price difference that there is, it is perhaps one of the reflections to put on the government’s table to allow this marketing of the E85 fairly quickly”concludes the spokesperson for the Belgian Federation of fuel and fuel traders.