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Hello Jack

I see a new fuel treatment product is coming into the New Zealand market - Xtreme Fuel Treatment. I think it is an American product and claims of arounf 30% fuel savings are being quoted. Do you have any knowledge of this product and whether the claims are valid? Or is it another quack product.
Thanks
Tony

The AA have said publicly for some time that people should be sceptical of the savings offered by fuel 'catalysts' or other devices and additives, due to the lack of independent, technically robust test results.

Many of these devices have been scientifically tested in numerous countries, and have not demonstrated improved fuel consumption or reduced exhaust emissions.

In Australia, the state motoring clubs, through the Australian Automobile Association, invited manufacturers to subject their devices to independent testing. Only one was prepared to put its device to the test. The results showed no change in fuel consumption in either of the two test vehicles when fitted with the fuel saving device.

The Environmental Protection Agency in the United States has tested over 100 devices and additives, and not found a single one which improved fuel economy. Only devices which reduced power to certain accessories – such as air-conditioning – and those which prompted the driver to reduce acceleration or to shift gears, indicated a very small improvement in fuel economy.

Automotive manufacturers are collectively spending billions of dollars on technology to reduce fuel consumption. No stone is being left unturned in an effort for one manufacture to gain an advantage over the other.

The NZAA has always reserved judgement on the effectiveness of fuel saving devices and additives, despite manufacturer's claims and anecdotal reports from users about their ability to improve a vehicle's performance. The NZAA believes if the device truly works, then the manufacturer will submit the product for robust, independent testing, and stand by the results.

We recommend the best ways for motorists to reduce their fuel consumption is by modifying their driving habits. Savings of up to 30% can be achieved by simple things such as driving smoothly, keeping to the speed limit, keeping the tyre pressures set correctly and reducing regular cold and short travel distances.

For more information refer to: http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/money/5420953/Warnings-aired-about-additive-promoted-by-Buddle