Within the scope of the agreement signed in November 2017, Eni, an italian energy company and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) have teamed up to develop “A20”, a new fuel with a low level of emissions due to its 15% methanol and 5 percent bio-ethanol alcohol content. By harnessing its low carbon content, bio component and high octane number, the new alternative fuel emits up to 3 percent less in CO2 exhaust emissions quantified using the new Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedures (WLTP).

The formula was designed to reduce direct and indirect CO2 emissions and is compatible with the majority of petrol cars sold from 2001 onwards, which accounts for more than 60% of the petrol cars in Italy, equivalent to approximately 12 million vehicles.

An initial test run of five Fiat 500s from the Eni Enjoy fleet in Milan ended successfully a few weeks ago. The cars were rented out around 9,000 times and travelled for 50,000 kilometres during the 13 months of the test without experiencing any problems, demonstrating a reduction in emissions and better performance as a result of the high octane number.

In the meantime, Eni and FCA are working to improve the A20 formula even further by increasing the amount of hydrocarbon components from renewable sources with a view to further reducing “Well-to-Wheel” CO2 emissions (this parameter evaluates emissions by taking production, transport and fuel consumption into consideration).