Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Petrol and diesel cars have been firmly in the crosshairs of environmental legislation in recent years, thanks to the large amount of pollution they pump into the atmosphere, and the limited supply of fossil fuels they use to do so.

Synthetic fuels may pose a solution to both these points, all without needing extensive modifications to existing vehicles. But what exactly are synthetic fuels, how are they made, and are they the answer to the impending 2030 petrol and diesel ban?

Synthetic fuel, also known as e-Fuel, is an alternative to petrol or diesel, but instead of being a refined version of the oil found naturally in the Earth's crust, it's a man-made fuel, produced through complex and innovative processes.

You may have heard of synthetic oil for use in your engine, as they are commonly specified for use in modern vehicles; however, synthetic fuel doesn’t follow quite the same method. Whereas synthetic engine oil starts with crude oil, the constituent parts of synthetic fuels are all extracted in a renewable way, and even the energy used comes from renewable methods such as solar and wind.

At the most basic level, synthetic fuels are a blend of carbon and hydrogen to form a liquid hydrocarbon fuel. Almost all fuels we use are hydrocarbons, from natural gas to diesel.

Hydrogen is gathered by extracting it from plain old water, in a process called electrolysis. Whilst it sounds relatively simple, this takes large amounts of energy to do. The other ingredient, carbon, is ideally captured from the large amounts of carbon dioxide in the air, but can also come from processed biomatter. 

Once collected, the hydrogen and carbon are combined and refined into petrol or diesel, depending on the materials used and processing involved.

Yes, the main selling point of eFuels is that they work as direct replacements for fossil-based petrol and diesel. The reliability, economy and performance would be matched by way of additives, just as synthetic engine oils are made.

An alternative to fossil fuels has been a priority for many years, due to both their polluting nature and the finite quantity of crude oil needed to produce them. Thanks to the way e-fuel is made, it is a CO2-neutral process, meaning it does not add CO2 to the atmosphere in the same way burning fossil fuels does. 

This means we can limit the effect our cars have on the environment, and add another option for those not yet ready or able to switch to electric. The prospect of synthetic fuels is so promising that an exemption to the EU 2035 petrol car ban was added.

One of the companies leading the way in synthetic fuel development is Porsche, most likely because the bulk of their business and prestige is from high-performance sports cars such as the 911, and they are famous for their incredible engines.

Whilst they do still emit CO2 into the atmosphere when burnt in an engine, eFuels are made by capturing carbon dioxide out of the air, meaning their carbon emissions are effectively neutralised.

However, one aspect that is not cleaner is the nitrogen oxide emissions; in some cases these have been found to be higher than when using conventional petrol fuel, the same can be said for carbon monoxide and ammonia.

What are the downsides of synthetic fuels?

Synthetic fuels aren’t widely used currently due to both cost and availability. The largest plant in the world in Chile is predicted to output around 55 million litres of eFuel in 2025, which sounds good until you learn that the UK alone uses around 17 billion litres of petrol. 

Because of this scarcity, the price is also very expensive, and with the amount of energy needed to produce it, it's not likely to come down to a price near that of normal fuels in the next few years. 

Another downside, especially when compared to electric vehicles, is the emissions that are still released when burned. As we discussed above, the NOx and carbon monoxide levels can actually be higher in some cases. This, coupled with the carbon dioxide emissions, means eFuelled vehicles will still need to be controlled in cities and large towns. 

Will synthetic fuels replace EVs and Hybrids?

Time will tell, but looking at the figures, it seems unlikely, at least for the majority of drivers. What may well happen is that synthetic fuels become available for those wanting to use older performance or vintage cars.

For the masses, though, eFuels will simply be too expensive to justify; hopefully, the cost of purchase and charging infrastructure of EVs will improve before the 2030 deadline. 

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Synthetic Fuels Explained

It might sound like a harmless squeak – but ignoring a high-pitched noise under your car’s bonnet could lead to hundreds of pounds in engine damage. Experts have warned that a squealing sound could signal a worn fan belt – and spraying it with WD-40 might do more harm than good.

The fan belt, also known as the auxiliary belt, is a key engine component responsible for powering everything from your alternator and cooling fan to power steering and air conditioning. Over time, the belt wears out or stretches, and one of the first signs is a telltale squeaking or chirping noise when you start the engine or accelerate.

A squeaking noise from under the bonnet is often the first sign your fan belt is wearing out or has lost tension. It’s a really common issue – but the wrong fix could end up costing you dearly.

Many drivers instinctively reach for WD-40 or other lubricants, assuming the belt just needs a bit of oil to quieten it down. But Bumper warns that this DIY quick-fix could create a far more expensive problem.

Fan belts are designed to run dry. If you spray any kind of lubricant on them, it can cause the belt to slip off the pulleys while the engine is running – and that can lead to engine overheating or damage to critical components.

In older cars, the solution may be as simple as tightening the belt with a socket wrench. However, most modern vehicles are fitted with automatic tensioners, meaning if the belt is squeaking, it's usually because it’s too worn or stretched to work properly – and should be replaced.

If your car uses an automatic tensioner and it’s still squeaking, don’t ignore it. Either the belt has had its day, or one of the components it drives – like the water pump or alternator – could be starting to fail.

The cost of replacing a worn fan belt typically ranges between £100 and £200, but if the belt snaps or slips off while driving, the cost to repair the damage could be much higher – especially if it leads to engine overheating or electrical failure.

The advice is simple: don’t ignore the squeak, and never spray oil on a fan belt.

If you hear a high-pitched squeal when starting your car or turning the wheel, it’s time to book it in – not reach for the WD-40. That sound might be annoying, but it’s your car’s way of telling you something’s wrong.

Drivers Warned Squeaking Noise Could Cost £100s – and WD-40 Might Make It Worse

Drivers are being urged to take better care of their engines – and it could be as simple as heading down the motorway now and then. Experts have warned that cautious, slow driving habits may actually be doing more harm than good, increasing the risk of engine damage caused by carbon build-up – often referred to by mechanics as “black death.”

Most motorists try to protect their cars by driving gently around town, but this can unintentionally lead to long-term problems. One of the biggest risks is the accumulation of carbon deposits, which clog internal components, reduce fuel efficiency, and can eventually lead to engine failure.

If you’re constantly driving at low speeds – especially for short journeys – your engine never gets hot enough to burn off carbon deposits. Over time, this can lead to a build-up inside your valves, pistons and exhaust system.

Known as “black death” because of its thick, dark appearance, the deposits are a by-product of unburnt fuel and poor engine circulation. Left unchecked, they can harden and cause serious damage.

In the worst-case scenario, carbon build-up can cause your engine to seize – and replacing that could cost thousands.

Thankfully, there’s a simple solution – and it doesn’t cost a penny.

Modern engines are designed to be run at higher speeds from time to time. Taking your car for a steady drive on the motorway helps heat the engine fully and allows fuel to clean and lubricate components.

Petrol, when forced through the system at higher pressure, can act as a natural solvent – cleaning valves and piston rings as it goes.

Another warning sign to look out for is white foam or froth under the oil cap, which could indicate water condensation in the engine oil, often caused by short trips where the engine doesn’t heat up properly.

If you take your oil cap off and notice a milky substance, that’s usually a sign your engine isn’t getting hot enough to burn off moisture. It’s not necessarily a serious fault, but it can lead to long-term problems if ignored.

Again, a regular long-distance drive at a steady speed can resolve the issue. When you drive at motorway speed for 45 minutes to an hour, the heat generated by the engine is enough to evaporate condensation and prevent that build-up. Keeping up with maintenance and using preventative measures like these can keep your vehicle in a better condition for longer, and hopefully save your bank balance from taking a big hit too.

Mechanics Warn Drivers to Beat Engine ‘Black Death’ with This Simple Habit

China has been a dominating force in manufacturing for decades, with many of the products we buy and use daily being made there. But, until recently, the same could not be said for cars; despite there being numerous Chinese car brands, they never really made much headway in any markets outside of Asia. 

However, with over 10% of new cars sold in the UK in 2025 being made in China, that is changing. Here is a rundown of some of the most notable brands, with some information about their current models. 

 has a long and varied history in the UK, first founded in the 1920s, they were famous for their open-top sports cars like the MG A and MG TF. The brand was owned by numerous companies throughout its life, but was finally bought by the current owner, SAIC, in 2011.

A full-scale re-launch, geared heavily towards cost-effective electric and hybrid cars, started in 2019. Since then, they have gone from strength to strength, with very successful models such as the MG5, MG HS and MG ZS.

SAIC, the owner of the MG Europe brand, is the biggest producer of cars in China, and has dozens of factories making both SAIC and MG-branded cars, for inside and outside of China, respectively. 

 was originally a battery manufacturer formed in 1995; they diversified into cars in the early 2000s. Their models are well known for their quirky design and names, notable mentions being the Seal, Sealion and Dolphin. 

Global sales in 2022 hit 1.8 million, making them a significant player internationally. Priced slightly higher than the likes of MG, and with a focus on luxurious interiors, they are targeting the higher end of this new market.

, was founded in 1997, but did not enter the UK market until 2024, with the Omoda 5 launch in March of that year. The brand is offering mid-level vehicles that offer a good amount of tech and luxury, but aren’t as expensive as some more luxury brands. 

Chery is the fourth largest vehicle manufacturer in China, and as such has many facilities across the country, its vehicle selection in the UK is currently limited to three models, the Omoda 5, the E5 and the Omoda 9. 

 came to the UK market ahead of most other Chinese brands, with their diesel powered Steed pickup truck in 2012. The Steed didn’t sell in great numbers, but the new ORA brand has. 

Their flagship vehicle being the ORA 3 (originally named the Funky Cat) which is a small, quirky city car, powered by a 170bhp electric motor. With prices starting at just under £25,000, it offers good value compared to the competition. 

GWM is also busy bringing another brand to the UK; HAVAL, which will specialise in SUVs and Crossovers. Their first car; the Jolion Pro. They have also teased what looks like a pickup truck too.

As seems to be common with all the brands discussed here, 

is another offshoot from a larger company, with the aim of targeting a different market. The parent company, Geely, is one of the larger car makers in China, and actually owns a few well-known “European” brands such as Polestar, Volvo and Lotus.

Zeekr is primarily focussed on the luxury market, with three cars in their current lineup, the most notable, the 001, is bucking the trend slightly by offering a shooting brake style 5 door, reminiscent of a larger Porsche Panamera.

The AWD performance model has over 500hp, putting it squarely in the high-end performance EV category. Other models include the angular Zeekr X (expected late 2025) and the 7X to come sometime after that. 

What are the top Chinese car brands?

When the temperature starts to climb in the summer, your car feels it too. Engines overheat. Air cons give up. And let’s not even talk about accidentally touching the metal on your seatbelt. 

Whether you're commuting or road-tripping, driving in a UK heatwave takes a bit of prep. Here are 5 tips to make your drive a little bit easier when the temps start rising. 

Driving in a heatwave can quickly go from uncomfortable to unbearable, unless you know how to keep your car (and yourself) cool.

Parking in the right spot can make a massive difference in a heatwave. Look for shade wherever you can find it: under trees, beside tall buildings – it might even be worth paying to park in a multi-storey car park. Even partial shade keeps your cabin temperature down and protects the interior from UV damage. 

No shade around? Make your own! A reflective windscreen cover can knock several degrees off your car’s internal temperature. You can also throw a towel across your steering wheel to stop it from heating up too much.

Open all the doors (or at least the front windows) and let that trapped heat escape for a minute or two. You’ll be surprised by how much cooler it feels straight away. This also gives your air con a better head start. Instead of working overtime, it can kick into action fast and more efficiently, keeping you cooler and allowing for better fuel efficiency when driving in a heatwave.

Once it starts to cool, close the window and switch the A/C to ‘Recirculation Mode’. This stops hot outside air from coming in and focuses and cools the air faster, taking less effort from the A/C and saving you fuel. This is especially important if you’re stuck in traffic or on a long drive. 

 If your car has a ‘max A/C’ button, use it to blast cool air through your car quickly. Once comfortable, dial it back to normal to stay comfortable without overworking the system. 

Are your car seats made of leather, vinyl or a dark fabric? These can absorb and trap heat especially well. And once they’re hot, they stay hot – not great if you’re driving in a heatwave. 

That’s where a cooling seat cover comes in. These handy add-ons reflect heat, improve airflow, and make your seats feel instantly cooler to the touch. Some even plug in and use fans to circulate air around your back and legs. No matter if you have a high-tech ventilated cushion or just a simple breathable mesh cover, they’re a simple, affordable way to make driving in a heatwave much more bearable.

5. Keep your fuel tank at least half full 

No one likes seeing the low fuel light, but it’s even more of an issue when driving in a heatwave. When the tank’s nearly empty, the heat can make your fuel evaporate faster, creating vapour and adding pressure on your fuel system. On top of that, your fuel pump needs to stay cool, which it does by sitting in the fuel itself. Less fuel means less cooling, which can make the pump overheat and wear out quicker. 

Before you go anywhere, give your car a few simple checks to save you from getting stuck later:

These small checks only take a few minutes but can make a big difference when driving in a heatwave, helping you keep cool and stopping small issues from turning into expensive problems.

Don’t let the heat catch you out with Bumper repair finance

If you’ve been driving in a heatwave and it’s taken a toll on your car, Bumper is here to help with simple 

. Whether it’s a blown tyre, failing air con, or unexpected engine trouble, split the repair cost into easy monthly instalments with 0% interest. Most applications are approved in minutes with a soft credit check, and you can apply online or directly with over 5,000 trusted partner garages.

There’s no exact number for when it gets too hot to drive, but when your cabin starts reaching 30°C, that’s when it can get dangerous. Keep a thermometer in your car or check the dashboard reading. If it feels too hot to function, it probably is.

What weather conditions should you not drive in?

If the outside looks like any of the following, it might be best to stay indoors: 

You can get heatstroke when driving. And it can happen faster than you think. Long journeys without proper ventilation or staying hydrated can push your body past its limit. Look out for early warning signs like: 

Top 5 tips for driving in a heatwave

If your car’s air conditioning has started to smell damp, musty, or even burnt, it could be more than just an unpleasant whiff; it might be the early sign of a serious problem. Failing to act quickly could result in a much bigger bill later down the road.

While many drivers assume a bad smell is harmless, the reality is quite different. One of the most common causes of a foul smell from your air conditioning is the build-up of mould or bacteria inside the system. This tends to happen when the system hasn’t been used for a while or hasn’t been serviced properly.

Moisture inside the unit – particularly around the evaporator coil – creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Once that bacteria takes hold, every time you switch the air conditioning on, it circulates musty air through the cabin.

More concerning, however, is the presence of a burning or electrical smell, which may point to something more dangerous. That kind of odour can suggest overheating components or wiring faults. These are far more serious and shouldn’t be ignored – it’s definitely time to book in with a qualified mechanic.

If the smell is mild and not accompanied by any other warning signs, drivers can sometimes tackle it themselves. Cleaning the drain pan and evaporator coil may help reduce odours, especially if it’s simply stale air. But if the smell sticks around or worsens, don’t try to mask it – get a professional opinion before more damage is done.

Neglecting early warning signs can prove costly. Something as simple as mould can eventually damage components if left untreated. What could have been a low-cost clean-up might turn into a complete system replacement.

Often, what stops people from acting fast is the cost. We know that unexpected car repairs can cause financial strain, which is why we offer interest-free monthly payment plans. It means drivers can get their cars sorted straight away without putting it off due to cost.

The message is clear: if your air conditioning smells off, don’t ignore it. It might just need a clean – or it might be something much more serious. Either way, you’ll save money and stress by sorting it sooner rather than later.

Why Your Car’s Air Conditioning Smells – and How to Fix It!

Many people buy electric cars primarily for the cost saving, the thought being that not having to buy expensive petrol or diesel will save them thousands over the course of a year. But with recent tax changes, and away-from-home charging rising in price, what really is the cost of running a Tesla Model 3?

Road tax, or to use its proper name, Vehicle Excise Duty, is a tax on using motor vehicles on a public road. The rate to be paid depends on a few factors, including the age of the vehicle and its environmental impact. There is also a different rate for the first year a car is on the road.

Another thing to consider is the “luxury vehicle tax”, which is an extra charge on cars with a list price of over £40,000, and is an extra £425 for the first 5 years.

Thanks to its zero-emissions drivetrain, the first year VED on a new Model 3 is £10.

As all Model 3’s were first registered after March 2017 (the Model 3 was first available in the UK in 2019) 

According to the Tesla website, the base spec Model 3 comes in at just under the £40,000 limit; however, almost all cars will have been ordered with one of the many optional extras, putting it above the limit.

The Model 3, therefore, will almost always incur the 

Insurance is calculated by risk, both the risk of your car being stolen and the risk of you having an accident. All cars are sorted into an 

 when put on sale, and this gives a pretty good indicator of what the insurance costs will be. 

The base spec, short-range and 2WD Model 3s are insurance group 38; however, the long-range, or performance models are typically in group 50, which is the highest and most expensive group.

Because insurance varies so much from person to person, with location playing a massive factor too, it’s best to get some indicative insurance quotes that are tailored to you, but be prepared to pay relatively high premiums.

This is the area where you would expect an electric vehicle to do very well, but it is heavily influenced by the places you charge, and your home electricity tariff.

*assuming an electricity rate of 34p / kWh, and charging to 100%

**assuming a 67p / kW rate, charging to 80%

The above figures show it is much cheaper to charge at home, but this isn’t very useful without knowing how many miles you get per charge. Especially in the case of the supercharger stations, where most people only charge to 80% (as charging from 80-100% takes a very long time).

This data is taken from real-world figures of owners, and will depend heavily on the style of driving, the conditions and the health of the battery.

You may remember a few years ago, Tesla offered free supercharging; some people think this applies to all Tesla cars, unfortunately, that's not the case. 

Free supercharging only came on selected models, and only when it was selected as an option from the dealership. It was never available on Model 3’s, only the Model S and X.

However, as Tesla offers the chance to “sell” the supercharging perk back to them when you’re changing cars, not many cars are left with this perk.

One of the biggest advantages of an electric car is its simplicity. They have very few moving parts, so unlike petrol or diesel cars, they don’t have engine oil, air filters, oil filters or fuel filters to change. 

Even brake pads rarely need changing, thanks to the regenerative braking doing most of the stopping. This massively cuts down on servicing costs.

The two things you do need to remember, even with an electric car, are the tyres and the brake fluid. Tyres should be changed 

 - usually when they get below 3mm tread depth. 

Depending on your driving style, EVs tend to be heavier on tyre wear as they typically have more weight and power than a typical petrol or diesel car. 

Tesla Model 3 Running Costs UK

We're highlighting a range of budget-friendly SUVs, ideal for families looking for space, efficiency, and everyday comfort. And best of all, they're all typically available for under £10,000.

Many families need vehicles that are spacious, economical, and stylish, and SUVs in this price range really tick all those boxes. You don’t need to break the bank to find something practical that still feels modern and well-equipped.

The Kia Sportage has earned a strong reputation for being one of the most dependable and family-friendly SUVs on the market. With its bold styling and well-laid-out cabin, it's perfect for day-to-day use and longer road trips.

The Kia Sportage is a superb choice for families, with its spacious design, solid build quality and low running costs. Its elevated seating position offers excellent visibility, and many models come with useful features such as Bluetooth, cruise control and air conditioning.

The Renault Kadjar is known for its modern design and tech-forward features, making it ideal for families who want practicality with a touch of sophistication. It offers a comfortable ride with generous space for both passengers and luggage.

Families will love the Kadjar’s blend of practicality and technology. It often includes features like touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and driver assistance tools, all wrapped in a sleek, modern design.

The Mazda CX-5 stands out for combining a premium feel with impressive driving dynamics. Its interior is thoughtfully designed with family use in mind, while the ride quality is smooth and refined.

The Mazda CX-5 is known for its smooth performance and spacious interior, making it an ideal family vehicle. It’s also one of the more fuel-efficient options in its class, making it a smart long-term investment for households.

The MG ZS offers excellent value for money and has grown in popularity thanks to its modern features and user-friendly design. It’s a compact SUV that punches above its weight in terms of interior quality and practicality.

The MG ZS brings a fresh, youthful feel to the SUV market. With its smart infotainment systems and thoughtful interior layout, it’s a strong option for families who want something modern and reliable.

The Ford EcoSport is a compact SUV that delivers flexibility, especially for families navigating city and suburban life. Its higher driving position and versatile seating make it suitable for school runs, shopping trips, and weekend getaways.

The Ford EcoSport is a practical choice with its compact, roomy design. It’s easy to drive, offers great visibility, and often comes with tech features that keep everyone connected and comfortable.

Stylish SUVs That Are ‘Economical’ and Perfect for Families for Under £10,000

Practical car care and repair advice for everyday drivers.

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