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Vivo Energy releases Shell V-Power test results after viral video raised questions on quality

Vivo Energy releases Shell V-Power test results after viral video raised questions on quality
A petrol station selling Shell V-Power. PHOTO/@BernardNdong/X

Vivo Energy Kenya has published results after it commissioned tests at six service stations following the concerns that had been raised on the quality of the Shell V-Power.

In a statement issued on Monday, February 3, 2025, the energy-distributing company said that it had commissioned independent tests through Intertek Testing Services, a globally accredited laboratory.

The results of the tests, Vivo Energy said, confirmed that Shell V-Power in Kenya fully meets its intended Research Octane Number (RON) of 95.

“Vivo Energy Kenya, the exclusive distributor and marketer of Shell fuels and lubricants in Kenya, is committed to delivering high-quality products that meet and exceed industry standards,” Vivo Energy Kenya stated.

“Following recent social media claims questioning the quality of Shell V-Power at select Shell service stations, we immediately commissioned independent tests through Intertek Testing Services, a globally accredited laboratory. The results confirm that Shell V-Power in Kenya fully meets its intended Research Octane Number (RON) of 95, reaffirming the high standards we uphold across our network,” the company added.

As per Vivo Energy Kenya’s statement, the results at the V-Power at Limuru Road Service Station showed RON number of 95.1, Woodridge service station 96, Lavington service station 95.9, St Austin Service station 95.7, Argwings Kodhek Road 95.7, with Kilimani Service Station showing an RON of 95.9.

Tanuki Garage’s video

Tanuki Garage had posted a video showing fuel quality at various Nairobi petrol stations, with the V-Power RON sparking mixed reactions.

The tests from seven filling stations showed inconsistencies, leaving Kenyans who pay more to get Shell V-Power concerned that they may not be getting value for their money.

At Shell Limuru, V-Power recorded 87 Performance Octane Number (PON), while the standard fuel at the same station had a higher rating of 91 PON.

A fuel pump. PHOTO/Pexels
A fuel pump. PHOTO/Pexels

V-Power at Shell Lavington recorded 87 PON while normal fuel was 90 PON.

A higher octane number in fuel indicates better performance, as it signifies greater resistance to engine knocking, allowing for smoother and more efficient engine operation, especially in high-performance vehicles with high compression ratios.

It implies that a higher octane number translates to better fuel quality and the potential for improved engine performance.

However, in those two cases, V-Power recorded a lower octane number than normal fuel raising questions among Kenyans, a situation that forced Vivo Energy Kenya to respond.

Vivo Energy’s response

The company stated that it had launched comprehensive investigations following concerns raised after the video published by the content creator went viral.

“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 statement read in part.

At the same time, Vivo Energy insisted that its products adhere to strict quality standards and fall into two Research Octane Number (RON) categories: Unleaded (RON 93) and Shell V-Power (RON 95).

Further, the distributor affirmed that all its products are tested before arriving in the country.

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