San Antonio, TX (June 19, 2025) - VP Racing Fuels, Inc., recognized worldwide as the leader in performance fuel products, is taking bold steps to address one of the most pressing environmental challenges in aviation today: the elimination of lead from aviation gasoline. As regulatory momentum builds and public health concerns intensify, VP Racing is leading the charge with UL100E, its high-octane, unleaded avgas formulated to meet the rigorous demands of piston-engine aircraft while maintaining safe and efficient operation. This innovation signals a new chapter not only for the aviation industry but also for VP’s legacy of solving complex fuel challenges with advanced, high-performance solutions.
Leaded aviation gasoline (avgas) is one of the last remaining transportation fuels in the United States that still contains tetraethyl lead, a highly toxic additive phased out of consumer automotive fuels decades ago. While essential for achieving high performance in piston-engine aircraft, leaded avgas has long raised environmental and public health alarms. Numerous studies have shown that emissions from leaded avgas contribute to elevated blood lead levels, particularly in communities located near airports. The risk is especially serious for children, whose developing bodies are more vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure.
Public health advocates, environmental organizations, and federal agencies have increased their calls for action, urging the aviation sector to transition to cleaner alternatives. In response, both regulatory efforts and private industry innovation have accelerated the development of unleaded aviation fuels. Among the leaders of this movement is VP Racing, which has committed to addressing the issue head-on with its development of UL100E—an unleaded, high-octane aviation fuel designed to meet the rigorous demands of general aviation.
“As the demand for an unleaded aviation fuel intensified, we recognized that VP Racing was uniquely positioned to lead this critical innovation,” said Alan Cerwick, President of VP Racing. “With a legacy of developing more than 80 specialized fuel blends for applications ranging from professional motorsports to everyday equipment, our expertise spans the full spectrum of performance and reliability. When the call for a lead-free avgas emerged, we took decisive action—and the results from our testing efforts have validated that leadership.”
VP Racing’s UL100E represents a breakthrough in aviation fuel technology. The company’s proprietary formulation addresses the high-octane demand for most aircraft and can improve the safety and reliability that aircraft operators expect. In doing so, VP Racing is helping to drastically reduce airborne lead emissions, advancing both public health and environmental protection goals. Their initiative is closely aligned with the federal Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE) initiative, a government-industry collaboration aimed at achieving a lead-free future for aviation.
The benefits of unleaded avgas go beyond cleaner emissions. Without the corrosive properties of lead, aircraft engines could see reduced wear and maintenance costs, offering long-term economic advantages for pilots, aircraft owners, and operators. Furthermore, the move to unleaded fuels signals a broader modernization of general aviation—making it safer, more efficient, and more in tune with the environmental expectations of today’s society. As public scrutiny over aviation emissions continues to grow, the industry’s willingness to innovate will play a crucial role in building public trust and regulatory goodwill.
VP Racing’s commitment to developing UL100E is more than a technological advancement—it’s a step toward a more sustainable aviation future. By proving that high-performance fuel can also be environmentally responsible, VP Racing is not only supporting a vital transition but also setting a new standard for fuel innovation in general aviation. The path to unleaded skies is becoming clearer, and VP Racing is helping to lead the way.
For more information about VP Racing and its products for racers, enthusiasts, and general consumers, visitVPRacingFuels.com
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ABOUT VP RACING
VP Racing, The World Leader in Fuel Technology®, has been fueling champions in virtually every form of motorsport on land, air, and sea since 1975. VP is the Official Fuel of the series like IMSA, NHRA, SCORE, World of Outlaws, AMA Pro Motocross, MotoAmerica, SRO GT World Challenge, Champ Offroad, American Flat Track, USF Pro, USAC, NASA, and more than 60+ other sponsored series and sanctioning bodies.
VP Racing is also well-known for its full line of consumer products, including ethanol-free small engine fuels and lubricants formulated for 2 and 4-cycle outdoor power equipment, automotive additives and octane improvers, performance coolants, appearance products, apparel, and accessories sold globally through automotive, home improvement, and online retailers. The VP brand is also represented by a program for independent operators with 350+ VP-branded gas stations, car washes, quick lubes, and marinas throughout North America. For more information, visit VPRacingFuels.com