From Tuesday petrol stations in the Netherlands are selling the fuel E10 as a replacement for Euro 95. E10 is cleaner but not all cars are compatible, motoring organisation Bovag warns.

E10 contains up to 10% sustainable bioethanol and cars that run on it produce 2% less carbon dioxide on average. The European-wide measure is aimed at reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Petrol stations with fewer than two petrol pumps are exempt from the measure.

Bert de Boer, of the historic automobile and motor cycle association, told broadcaster NOS that at least 300,000 classic cars would have problems, as would tens of thousands of old motorbikes. ‘But some cars made after 2000 may also run into trouble,’ he said.

Car dealers’ federation Bovag estimates some 700,000 cars in total may be unable to use the new fuel.

In order to avoid leaky pipes and corroding rubber fittings, the owners of classic cars can turn to so-called premium fuels, such as the more expensive Esso Synergy Supreme+, Shell V-Power, BP Ultimate and Total Excellium.

Motorists who want to check if their car is compatible can go to this website.