The vibrant hue of pink gasoline caused a stir online when Ohio-based TikTok creator Lane Beatty shared a video of himself refueling his Ram 3500 truck. The video, which features Beatty pouring the unexpected pink fuel from a pump with a green handle, has captivated over 1.1 million viewers with reactions ranging from shock to humor.
Beatty’s video, available here, includes the caption “The lion isn’t concerned with what color the fuel is.” This sparked various comments, with one viewer exclaiming, “I didn’t know petrol was pink!” Others joined in with witty remarks like, “Is the lion putting cherry slush in his vehicle?” and “God forbid a car wants a little pink drink.”
Questions about the color of the fuel were inevitable. One viewer queried, “Please tell me you drive a diesel,” while another speculated about the possibility of pink diesel being used in a gasoline engine, asking, “Please tell me that’s for a cheater’s car?”
Why Is the Fuel Pink?
The website OFTRB provides insight into the mystery of pink fuel. Their post explains that gasoline is typically clear or yellowish but can be dyed pink using solvent red 26 or other synthetic colorants. These dyes do not alter the fuel’s properties or performance but help differentiate fuel grades.
OFTRB further clarifies that pink coloring is also implemented for identification purposes and to comply with regional tax laws and environmental regulations. In some areas, pink fuel is designated for “off-road or non-highway” use, and as noted by TruckersReport, such dyed fuel is often untaxed as it’s meant for farm machinery rather than regular vehicle use.
This context sheds light on a cheeky comment from a TikTok user who mused, “The lion is not frightened by the concept of tax evasion,” suggesting Beatty might be using non-taxed diesel fuel for his Ram 3500.
Dye Controversy
The practice of dyeing fuel has faced scrutiny. A 1996 article from The Oklahoman discussed arguments against this practice, which some say has become obsolete as modern vehicles and pumps obscure the fuel’s color.
The color-coding of gasoline gained traction in the 1970s, driven by Environmental Protection Agency mandates to phase out leaded fuels for cleaner air, as per The Oklahoman.
Pink or Red Diesel Fuel
Beatty’s use of a green-handled pump suggests he was refueling with diesel, as per the standard color coding for diesel pumps. However, not all stations adhere to this coding, as seen with BP, which has faced criticism from confused drivers who double-check their fuel selection (source).
Beatty’s TikTok account features other videos showing his Ram 3500 with a Cummins inline 6 diesel engine and a tractor, reinforcing the likelihood that he uses diesel fuel. Motor1 has reached out to Beatty for comment and will provide updates if he responds.
Original Story at www.motor1.com