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Why Is Ethanol-Free Gasoline Prohibited for Vehicles in Brazil? Discover the Details

Written by Roberta Souza
Published on 22/04/2025 at 14:44
gasolina, etanol, aviação
Foto: Reprodução Terra Brasil Notícias
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Experts Explain The Difference Between Aviation Gasoline And The One Sold At Brazilian Gas Stations

Although many people still wonder whether it is possible to fuel a car with gasoline without ethanol, the answer is simple: yes, this type of fuel exists — but it is not allowed for passenger vehicles. The so-called “pure” gasoline is known as AVGAS and is exclusively used in aviation. This is because it contains tetraethyl lead, a highly toxic substance that has been banned from automotive fuels for environmental and public health reasons, according to CNN.

Ethanol Is Mandatory By Law In Brazilian Gasoline

In Brazil, all gasoline sold at gas stations must contain anhydrous ethanol in its composition. Legislation mandates a percentage between 27% and 30%, depending on the formulation. The inclusion of ethanol, besides being mandatory, plays an essential role: to increase the octane rating of the fuel without resorting to the use of toxic additives, such as lead, which was used until the 1990s.

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Even though the manual for some imported vehicles recommends the use of pure gasoline, this type of fuel is not legally available in the country for automotive purposes. Automotive mechanical expert Boris Feldman emphasizes that using aviation gasoline in cars is illegal and can cause serious damage to the engine.

Aviation Gasoline Is Highly Toxic And Restricted

AVGAS is developed for aircraft engines that require high performance. Therefore, it still uses tetraethyl lead to maintain stability and efficiency in extreme conditions. However, the environmental impact and health risks are so significant that its use outside of aviation is prohibited.

Furthermore, attempting to use it in regular cars can result in engine damage, due to the difference in chemical composition and the lack of suitability for the automotive system.

For those seeking better performance, the recommendation is to opt for premium gasoline, widely available at Brazilian gas stations. With up to 102 octanes (RON) and a lower ethanol content, around 25%, this type of fuel is ideal for vehicles with high compression engines. Despite the higher price, it offers greater yield and engine protection, without violating environmental regulations.

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Marco Antonio Gonçalves
Marco Antonio Gonçalves
23/04/2025 08:52

Carros que foi fabricado para gasolina não tem componentes ante corrosão, em 1970 não existia álcool era gasolina comum e gasolina azul vendida nos postos Texaco que e a gasolina aditivada, a verdade é que se compra gasolina com 30% de álcool cobrado por preço de gasolina. Este Boris é um oportunista fala bem para quem paga mais, um velho igual os carros velho, da um módulo para ele consertar e vê se ele entende, já está ultrapassado falando besteira.

Roberta Souza

Author for the Click Petróleo e Gás portal since 2019, responsible for publishing over 8,000 articles that have garnered millions of views, combining technical expertise, clarity, and engagement to inform and connect readers. A Petroleum Engineer with a postgraduate degree in Industrial Unit Commissioning, I also bring practical experience and background in the agribusiness sector, which broadens my perspective and versatility in producing specialized content. I develop content topics, disseminate job opportunities, and create advertising materials tailored for the industry audience. For content suggestions, job vacancy promotion, or advertising proposals, please contact via email: santizatagpc@gmail.com. We do not accept resumes

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