NRMA warning on fuel saving device

NRMA Motoring & Services today warned motorists to be wary of buying expensive fuel saving devices that may not deliver the promised results.

NRMA Manager Motoring Research Jack Haley said an independent report initiated by Australia's motoring clubs had thrown doubt on the effectiveness of a leading fuel saving device in reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

"The nation's motoring clubs have long been sceptical of claims that fuel 'catalysts' or other devices and additives can cut fuel consumption and emissions in both petrol and diesel engines due to the lack of technically well-based test results," Mr Haley said.

"The NRMA has always reserved judgement on the effectiveness of fuel saving devices and additives, despite manufacturer's claims and anecdotal reports from Members about their ability to improve a vehicle's performance.

"The motoring clubs, through the Australian Automobile Association, invited the manufacturers to subject their devices to independent testing to gauge their effectiveness in improving fuel consumption and reducing exhaust emissions.

"To its credit, the Fitch organisation was the only one prepared to put its device to the test."

The independent testing, by Vipac Engineers and Scientists Ltd, was conducted in accordance with the Australian Standard relating to devices claimed to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. The tests involved fitting a Ford Falcon and Toyota Hiace, both using unleaded petrol, with a Fitch Fuel Catalyst.

Analysis of the results focused on the difference in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions between the vehicles before the device was fitted and then after the device was fitted.

Mr Haley said the test showed no change in fuel consumption in either of the two test vehicles when fitted with the fuel saving device.

"It also showed no substantial reduction in exhaust emissions. On the contrary, there was an increase in nitrogen oxides (NOx) and total hydrocarbon (THC) emissions from one of the test vehicles," Mr Haley said.

"The makers of the Fitch Fuel Catalyst F300 In-Line product used in the testing claimed fitting the device would result in reduced emissions, while also saving 5-12 per cent on fuel. 

"In fairness, Fitch Fuel Catalyst Australia was the only company to offer their product for testing and the testing was limited to two vehicles; so the report cannot be considered a comprehensive judgement on all fuel saving devices on the market.

"But motorists should certainly consider the results before committing to a potentially expensive device that may not produce the promised results."

Read the Vipac Engineers and Scientists Ltd report (PDF 4.5MB/13 pages)