Vivo Energy has published results after it commissioned 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.
“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,” Vivo Energy stated.
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 had tested fuel quality at various Nairobi petrol stations, with the V-Power RON sparking mixed reactions.
Tanuki Garage tested fuel from seven filling stations which exposed inconsistencies, leaving Kenyans who pay premium 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.
He went to test fuel at Shell Lavington where V-Power 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 who pay a premium for that fuel product forcing Vivo Energy Kenya to respond.
Vivo Energy’s response
The company had earlier on stated that it had launched comprehensive investigations following concerns raised after a video published by content creator Tanuki Garage (Testing Petrol Quality in Kenya) 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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