Sinopec Launches Aipao 103 Racing Fuel, Filling Domestic R&D Gap

On May 16, Sinopec officially launched its independently developed Aipao 103 racing fuel at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Aipao China Taklimakan Rally in Xinjiang. As China's first mass-produced 103-octane race-grade gasoline, the launch marks a breakthrough in domestically developed racing fuel and ends the industry's long reliance on imported supply for premier racing events.

103-Plus Octane Rating with Four Core Advantages

The Aipao 103 racing fuel achieves a research octane number exceeding 103, five units higher than commercially available 98-octane petrol, effectively reducing engine knock risk under high compression and high load conditions. It also features an olefin content of approximately one per cent (an 80 per cent reduction), and conductivity of no less than 500 pS/m to minimise static accumulation during high-flow refuelling.

The fuel delivers four core strengths. Enhanced power comes from an optimised molecular structure for faster evaporation and more complete combustion, yielding sharper throttle response and stronger acceleration. Knock resistance is achieved via the elevated octane rating, ensuring smooth engine operation under extreme compression. Green credentials include zero lead or manganese additives, minimal combustion deposits, and ultra-low sulphur content. Safety is addressed by antistatic compounds to reduce refuelling risks.

Zhenhai Refinery Production Using Aviation Fuel Expertise

The fuel is produced at Sinopec Zhenhai Refinery, leveraging its high-quality gasoline and aviation fuel manufacturing expertise. A strict production chain covers specification design, component blending and quality inspection. The R&D team selected premium crude fractions and applied deep hydrofining technology to remove impurities, while advanced continuous reforming, isomerisation and alkylation processes optimised hydrocarbon structures without needing metallic antiknock agents.

For Professional Racing Only, Not for Civilians

Aipao 103 fuel is developed for extreme high-rev, high-load, long-duration racing conditions. It is supplied exclusively to certified racing organisations, professional teams and designated circuits. It will not be available at civilian petrol stations, and is strictly prohibited for use in standard passenger vehicles.

China's Growing Presence in Premium Motorsport

The 2026 Taklimakan Rally spans a record 7,500 kilometres and features nearly 300 international drivers. Sinopec has sponsored the event for many consecutive years. In 2025, its Aipao 98 fuel was the exclusive fuel for the F1H2O World Championship in Shanghai. Sinopec has invested over 400 billion RMB upgrading fuel quality from National Phase I to Phase VI standards, achieving world-leading levels.