OCTANE RATING OF PETROL

Press, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 25677, 14 December 1948, Page 3

OCTANE RATING OF PETROL

STANDARD A RESULT OF SHORTAGE (P.A.) WELLINGTON, December 13. The continued low octane rating of petrol available to New Zealand motorists was a result of not any arbitrary fixation by the Government, but of the world supply shortage in combination with the need to spend dollars in any projected purchase of lead. An increase in the rating had been considered for some time, but in answer to inquiries, all five of the oil companies operating in the country had replied that such an increase was not practicable at present. This was stated to-day by the Minister of Industries and Commerce (Mr A. H. Nordmeyer). There was no foundation for a statement that ample quantities of titroethyl lead or benzol were in storage m New Zealand, and that “the companies would readily improve the antiknock quality if they were permitted to do so.” Of the five companies consulted, not one was in favour of increasing the octane rating. One of the major problems facing suppliers in this matter, the Minister continued, was the lead content of benzol necessary to increase the octane rating of petrol. Lead had to be paid for in dollars. There was a limit to dollar funds available for petrol, so. that if lead had to be paid for as well, rhe quantity of petrol imported must drop.

In other words, if petrol were to be of “super” grade, there would, be less of it. added Mr Nordmeyer.