Drivers warned of potential consequences of E10 rollout

E10 fuel was introduced to forecourts in Northern Ireland on November 1. It has now become the new standard of unleaded petrol. The ‘greener’ fuel has already been available in England, Wales and Scotland for over a year, with the Government praising the biofuel as helping to cut emissions.It is blended with up to 10 percent renewable ethanol and could contribute to cutting transport CO2 emissions in the UK by potentially 750,000 tonnes a year.The renewable materials include low-grade grains, sugars and waste wood, making it greener than existing petrol.Around 95 percent of petrol cars will be compatible with the fuel, with the Government urging drivers to check their eligibility with its online compatibility tool.A small number of older vehicles, including classic cars and some from the early 2000s, will continue to need E5.READ MORE: Drivers warned of huge problems with E10 fuel over Christmas Drivers warned of potential consequences of E10 roll-out. (Image: Getty)The RAC warned that there could be as many as 600,000 vehicles on the roads that are not compatible with the fuel.Despite the decarbonisation benefits, many drivers have previously voiced concerns about the efficiency of the petrol.Dr Dan Clarke, Global Head of Science and Technology, SulNOx Group Plc, warned that motorists in Northern Ireland may notice a significant difference in the driving of the car.Speaking to Express.co.uk, he added: “While petrol or diesel are very unlikely to freeze in the temperatures we typically experience in the UK, water condensation left in the empty fuel lines can easily freeze and prevent fuel from reaching your engine.DON’T MISS Motorists could face fines for simply defrosting their car windscreens [WARNING] Drivers can use simple gear-changing trick to slash fuel consumption [INSIGHT] Car damage caused by E10 can be prevented by following simple steps [REVEAL]  E10 fuel was introduced to forecourts in Northern Ireland on November 1. (Image: Getty) How to save fuel. (Image: EXPRESS)If the ‘greener’ petrol is used in an incompatible car, it will still run, but the RAC warns that seals, plastics and metals may be damaged over longer periods.This is because of the bioethanol’s corrosive properties as it absorbs water from the atmosphere.This leads to condensation in fuel tanks if the car remains unused for long periods of time.Simon Williams, RAC’s fuel spokesperson, urged classic car owners to be particularly careful with the new fuel.He warned not accidentally fill up with E10 and then leave it sat in the tank for long periods.This could lead to expensive damaged seals, plastics and metals.