What is gas oil?
Gas oil (often referred to as ‘red diesel’ due to its reddy-pink colour) has many of the same properties as regular ‘white’ diesel, but it is intended for off-road use. As such, gas oil is taxed at a lower rate making it a cheaper fuel for powering vehicles in specific industries e.g. agriculture, construction, quarrying, forestry and shipping. It must not be used as road fuel.
Where can gas oil be used?
There are very strict rules surrounding the use of gas oil in the UK. It can only be used in the following:
- Unlicensed vehicles that are only ever driven on private land.
- Licensed vehicles that have been registered with a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) and are only ever driven on private land.
- Agricultural vehicles, as long as they are being used for business purposes.
- Snow clearing vehicles and gritters (including gritting activity by tractors, light agricultural vehicles and material handlers).
- JCBs, excavators and cranes that are being used for construction purposes.
- Commercial and leisure boats when used in UK waters (although full tax must be paid on any fuel used to power the engine).
Do I need an additive?
Diesel engines are designed to operate with a cetane number from 40 to 55. However, many engine manufacturers design equipment using EN590 specification (road diesel) fuel – use Peak Gas Oil Extra + additive to allow modern diesel engines to run on gas oil, as well as enhance performance of older vehicles.
Can I use gas oil as road fuel?
Gas oil/red diesel must not be used as a road fuel – the rules regarding its use are complex and in almost all cases it is illegal to use this fuel in vehicles on public roads.
The police regularly carry out roadside checks on vehicles to identify people who are using gas oil illegally. If you are found using it in an on-road vehicle, your case will be handed to HMRC.
If you are in doubt about whether you can legally use gas oil in your vehicle, check HMRC guidelines or contact our office on 01246 450242 to discuss your requirements.
You can purchase Road Derv (also known as road diesel or white diesel) from the pump in our forecourt, or in bulk when delivered by our tankers. Road Derv is suitable for use in all road vehicles powered by diesel engines.
Why choose Peak Energy as your oil supplier?
- Over 50 years of experience
- Family owned local oil supplier
- Personal approach
- Supplier of premium grade fuels
- Competitive prices
- Emergency home heating oil deliveries
- No commission on fuel
- UKIFDA accredited supplier