NASCAR Specialized Fuels: Fuel plays a crucial role in powering internal combustion engines, but not all fuels are created equal. Vehicles have varying needs, with some performing optimally on lower-grade fuels while others, like sports cars, demand premium fuels for their best performance. Motorsports, including NASCAR, use specialized fuels not commonly found at standard gas stations.
Gas pumps in the U.S. offer different octane ratings87 for “regular,” 89-90 for midgrade, and 91-93 for “premium.” Octane ratings indicate a fuel’s stability, crucial in preventing knocking or premature ignition in engines. Higher octane ratings offer increased stability, augmenting horsepower output, especially in high RPM and compression ratio cars.
Race cars often employ higher octane ratings and additional additives like methanol or oxygenates to enhance power output and efficiencyessential elements in motorsports.
However, these high-performance fuel blends tailored for motorsports wouldn’t suit your average SUV, designed for everyday use with different engine specifications.
Sunoco, the official NASCAR fuel provider since 2004, supplies fuel for the NASCAR Cup, Xfinity, and Craftsman Truck Series. Sunoco Green E15, used across NASCAR’s top three series since 2011, boasts a 98-octane rating, comprising 15% corn-based ethanol and around 5% oxygen for enhanced performance. Notably, the name “Green E15” isn’t merely marketing; the fuel’s color is genuinely green.
During a NASCAR race, cars have an 18-gallon fuel cell, but this amount isn’t nearly enough to cover the hundreds of miles raced. A NASCAR car’s fuel consumption varies based on numerous factors like track conditions, temperature, strategies, and positioning within the pack.
Typically, NASCAR cars don’t excel in fuel efficiency, averaging 2-5 miles per gallon. For a 500-mile race, a car might consume over 100 gallons of fuel. Considering an average field of 36 cars, the NASCAR Cup Series could utilize thousands of gallons of Green E15 per race.
Approximately 3,500 gallons of fuel might be consumed in a standard race, totaling around 126,000 gallons of racing fuel annually throughout the 36-week NASCAR Cup Series seasonemphasizing the considerable volume of specialized fuel necessary for the sport’s demands.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Does NASCAR use special fuel?
Sunoco Green E15 is the go-to fuel for NASCAR drivers. This specialized fuel is a high-performance blend that’s designed for race cars and high-performance engines. With a 98 octane rating and an unleaded formula, it’s the perfect choice for drivers who demand the best. And, as its name suggests, Green E15 is actually green in color, making it easy to spot on the track. So if you’re looking for a fuel that can help you take your driving to the next level, look no further than Sunoco Green E15.
What brand of fuel does NASCAR use?
NASCAR® and NHRA® have chosen Sunoco as their Official Fuel, and over 50 other racing series have also made it their fuel of choice.
What is NASCAR’s new fuel?
NASCAR and Growth Energy have recently celebrated a remarkable milestone of 20 million miles driven on E15 fuel. This high-performance fuel has been put to the test under the toughest conditions in NASCAR, and it has proven to be a reliable and flawless performer. E15 has passed every test with flying colors, making it a top choice for drivers who demand the best. This achievement is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of E15 fuel, and it is a proud moment for NASCAR and Growth Energy.
Does NASCAR still use ethanol fuel?
American Ethanol plays a crucial role in the NASCAR scene. Whether it’s the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series or the Cup Series, your beloved driver races every weekend with Sunoco Green E15, which contains 15% American Ethanol.
