Fuel additive claims to help save a bundle at the pump

Fuel additive claims to help save a bundle at the pump

April 7, 2006

By JEFF LENNOX
6 News Reporter

KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- With gas prices creeping closer to post-Katrina levels, some people are looking for creative ways to save at the pump. One fuel additive on the market claims it can save more than 25 percent on your next gas purchase.

BioPerformance comes in powder and pill form. The company claims putting its product in a gas tank will reduce contamination and drastically improve gas mileage.

To get the most from the additive, the makers recommend putting it in your tank on empty, right before you fill up.

Shalonda Robinson, who works at WATE, uses BioPerformance. She gives it high marks.

"For us, for my family it has been a 10 definitely. The first time we went to Memphis, we spent $200 for gas. And this time, when we took the truck using the BioPerformance, we only spent $90," Robinson says.

On the flip side, some consumers who tested the additive reported only minimal changes, if any, in their gas mileage.

BioPerformance says in a disclaimer, every person's results will vary.

Car dealers and mechanics say you should remain cautious when using a fuel additive. If you decide to use one, they recommend checking the product's history first. No findings have been released yet for BioPerformance.

A study is currently underway, at an accredited university, to find out if BioPerformance works and to make sure it is safe for vehicles.