Ethanol Must Be a Concern for Motorcycle Manufacturers, Adverse Effects Loom

KatadataOTO – Fuel mixed with ethanol is being promoted by the government as a form of support for reducing vehicle exhaust emissions.

Although it has various positive effects, many preparations still need to be made, including by vehicle manufacturers such as motorcycles.

Engines and fuel tanks that are not compatible with consuming a 10 percent ethanol-blend fuel can be damaged if forced to use E10.

Technicians explain that there are indeed concrete negative impacts that can be felt in terms of performance.

Photo : Pertamina

“Using fuel containing ethanol impacts the fuel system and engine performance, especially in older vehicles,” said Wahyu Budhi, Technical at PT Wahana Makmur Sejati (WMS) in Jakarta, Wednesday (22/10).

Meanwhile, for newer motorcycles, more advanced steps have been taken to accommodate the use of ethanol-blend fuel.

Such as an anti-rust coating on the fuel tank, which helps prevent rust that may occur when the component is exposed to water.

Without the proper specifications, users must bear various risks of motorcycle damage that require significant costs.

Some of these include damage to the fuel system, corrosion, and component degradation.

Then, seal components also have the potential to become brittle if not made from materials compatible with ethanol. Also, injector clogging and rough engine operation.

“A decrease in power and a lack of fuel efficiency. The performance decline is caused by carbon accumulation,” Wahyu emphasized.

Therefore, before the 10 percent ethanol-blend gasoline, or E10, is implemented, the government must ensure the readiness of all stakeholders and the supporting ecosystem.

Photo : Antara

On a separate occasion, an expert opined that motorcycles have more advanced technology compared to cars in Indonesia. So they are considered ready to face the implementation of E10 fuel.

However, it is noted that the motorcycles in question are units produced after the 2000s.

“They already use a three-way catalyst, a catalyst that reduces exhaust emissions. Cars don't have that yet,” said Iman Reksowardojo, a Mechanical Engineering Lecturer at Pertamina University and a Member of the Technical Committee for New and Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation (EBTKE) in Jakarta.