Vivo Energy Kenya has initiated a thorough investigation following concerns over the quality of Shell V-Power fuel sold at select petrol stations.
In a statement issued on Sunday, January 2, 2025, the energy distributor assured customers that it had also called for independent testing of its fuel after a viral video raised doubts about Shell V-Power’s quality.
The controversy emerged after content creator Tanuki Garage published a video titled “Testing Petrol Quality in Kenya,” where fuel quality was examined at various Nairobi petrol stations. The findings, shared widely on social media, sparked debate among consumers who pay a premium for Shell V-Power fuel.
Fuel Quality Inconsistencies
Tanuki Garage tested fuel samples from seven filling stations, revealing inconsistencies in octane levels. The results left many consumers questioning whether they were getting value for their money.
At Shell Limuru, V-Power recorded a Performance Octane Number (PON) of 87, while the regular fuel at the same station had a higher PON of 91.
A similar test at Shell Lavington found that V-Power had a PON of 87, compared to 90 PON for standard fuel.
Since higher octane fuel enhances engine performance by reducing knocking and improving efficiency, the unexpected lower PON ratings for Shell V-Power raised concerns among motorists who rely on it for high-performance vehicles.
Vivo Energy Responds
Following the public outcry, Vivo Energy Kenya addressed the concerns, emphasizing that it takes fuel quality seriously and has commenced independent laboratory testing to verify the claims.
“We take these claims seriously and have initiated a comprehensive investigation, including independent laboratory testing. We will provide further updates once our review is complete,” the company stated.
Vivo Energy Defends Fuel Quality
Despite the controversy, Vivo Energy reaffirmed that its products meet strict quality standards and fall into two Research Octane Number (RON) categories:
- Unleaded Fuel (RON 93)
- Shell V-Power (RON 95)
The company further stated that all fuel imports undergo rigorous testing before arriving in Kenya.
“Vivo Energy Kenya, the exclusive distributor and marketer of Shell products, is aware of a video circulating on social media questioning Shell V-Power quality. Our fuel imports adhere to strict quality standards and undergo multiple tests before being distributed through our Shell service station network,” the statement read.
Regulatory Authority Yet to Respond
As of the time of this publication, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) had yet to issue a response regarding the viral video and Vivo Energy’s statement.
