For the longest time, Kenyans have been complaining about fuel adulteration with many getting check engine lights after fueling at different stations within the city. Following these concerns Kim JH of Tanuki Garage conducted a Nairobi fuel quality test something which sparked widespread concern among Kenyans more so consumers of Shell V-Power.
According to the tests, Shell V Power which is sold as premium fuel with a high-octane rating actually had a lower rating than normal fuel sold at Shell. It is safe to say that those who have been paying a premium for V-Power were not amused at paying more for less. The octane rating, or Research Octane Number (RON), measures fuel’s ability to resist engine knocking, which is crucial for optimal engine performance and longevity.
Key findings from the fuel quality test include.
- Total Limuru Road – Recorded the highest octane rating at 92 RON for regular petrol.
- Astrol Rosslyn – Registered 91 RON for standard fuel.
- Shell Limuru Road – V-Power scored 87 RON, while regular petrol at the same station rated higher at 91 RON.
- Shell Lavington – V-Power again underperformed with 87 RON compared to regular fuel’s 90 RON.
- Other Stations – Total Spring Valley and Rubis UN Avenue both recorded 90 RON for their regular fuel.
Motorists and consumers took to social media platforms to express their frustration, questioning the value of premium fuels and the role of regulatory bodies in safeguarding fuel quality.
The core of the public outrage centers on the discrepancy between the price paid for Shell V-Power and the actual octane performance delivered. Many motorists feel that they have been misled into spending extra money for a premium product that does not meet its advertised standards.
Following the release of the findings by Tanuki, Vivo Energy Kenya, the exclusive distributor of Shell products in Kenya, issued a statement on February 2, 2025. In the statement, the company emphasized that their fuel imports adhere to stringent quality standards, with Shell V-Power categorized under Research Octane Number (RON) 95 and regular unleaded fuel at RON 93.
Official Statement. pic.twitter.com/keeWvCYLGn
— Vivo Energy Kenya Official (@vivoenergykenya) February 2, 2025
Vivo Energy assured the public that each fuel shipment is certified at the source and undergoes rigorous testing upon arrival in Kenya. The company indicated that they had initiated a comprehensive investigation, including independent laboratory testing, to address the concerns raised about Shell V-Power fuel performance.
Despite the outrage by the motorists, EPRA is yet to comment.