KARACHI (Kashmir English): Automobile manufacturers Kia and GWM have clarified fuel requirements for their vehicles in Pakistan, days after the government announced a significant increase of Rs200 per litre levy on high-octane fuel used in luxury vehicles.
Following the hike, the high-octane petrol reached staggering Rs535, sparking the debate over whether vehicles currently using High Octane Blending Component (HOBC) can consume the regular petrol, which includes E-10 or RON 92.
In a statement on its social media accounts, Kia stated that all its models can be shifted on RON 92 fuel, commonly sold as Super or Premier.
It said that Kia vehicles are “designed and tested to operate efficiently using unleaded fuel with a minimum octane rating of RON 91+.”
“Customers can confidently continue using RON 92 fuel without any concerns regarding performance or reliability,” the manufacturer said, adding that usage or mixing of Hi-Octane fuel is not mandatory for Kia models in Pakistan.
However, the company strongly advised customers to refuel only at reputable, trusted fuel stations that provide uncontaminated/unadulterated fuel.
Similarly, Great Wall Motors (GWM), the parent company of Haval, also notified that all its vehicles can use RON 92 and remain unaffected by rising high-octane prices
“Unaffected by rising hi-octane prices, all GWM vehicles are optimised for RON 92 across trusted fuel stations nationwide,” GWM Pakistan said in a social media post.
The clarification comes as consumers across Pakistan face rising fuel costs and seek cost-effective vehicle maintenance options.
High-octane fuel price hiked
Prime Minister on Sunday announced an increase of Rs200 per litre levy on high-octane petrol used in luxury vehicles.
According to the media wing of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the move is expected to generate Rs9 billion in monthly savings for the government, from which the ordinary people will be given relief.
During a video meeting chaired by PM Shehbaz, it was decided to “increase the current levy on luxury vehicles used by the richest class, which is Rs 100 per liter, by Rs 200 per liter.”
The Prime Minister took notice that the levy on high-octane fuel used in the most expensive vehicles should be increased, a statement issued by PMO said.
It added that a levy of Rs 300 per liter will now be applicable on high-octane fuel used in the most expensive vehicles.
