A recent independent Nairobi fuel quality test conducted by Kim JH of Tanuki Garage has sparked widespread concern among Nairobi motorists. You can watch the full video, titled “Testing Petrol Quality in Kenya… Are We Getting Scammed?”, to see the detailed testing process and results for yourself. The findings, shared via the now viral video, have ignited a public debate on the consistency and quality of premium fuels, particularly Shell V-Power fuel performance, across several petrol stations in Nairobi.
Surprising Nairobi Fuel Test Results Reveal Shell V-Power Underperformance
The tests, carried out at seven petrol stations, revealed that standard fuel often outperformed Shell’s premium V-Power in terms of octane ratings. 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 Nairobi 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.
These Nairobi fuel quality test results have raised serious concerns, especially for consumers paying a premium for Shell V-Power with the expectation of superior fuel quality. The outrage is rooted in the fact that Shell sells V-Power at a significantly higher markup than regular petrol, marketing it for its supposed higher octane rating. Consumers feel deceived as they are paying more but not receiving the product quality they believe they are purchasing.
Public Reaction and Social Media Outrage Over Shell V-Power Fuel Concerns
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. One user questioned, “Where is EPRA and the consumer protection authorities when Shell is conning us?” Another added, “It hurts because I fuel at Shell for V-Power. You pay more for less.”
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.
Vivo Energy Kenya’s Response to Shell V-Power Fuel Quality Claims
In response to the growing backlash, Vivo Energy Kenya, the exclusive distributor of Shell products in Kenya, issued a statement on February 2, 2025. 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.
Vivo Energy assured the public that each fuel shipment is certified at the source and undergoes rigorous testing upon arrival in Kenya. The company has initiated a comprehensive investigation, including independent laboratory testing, to address the concerns raised about Shell V-Power fuel performance.
Regulatory Silence and Calls for Action from EPRA on Fuel Quality Standards
Despite the uproar, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has yet to issue an official statement. This silence has fueled further frustration, with many Kenyans demanding transparency and accountability from the regulatory body tasked with overseeing fuel quality standards in Kenya.
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