After many months of testing, we are excited to finally release RacingLine Performance’s E85 calibrations!

These files have been developed specifically for the E85 Pump Fuel, available at selected petrol stations across the country. The testing has been carried out on 12 individual vehicles. There is in excess of a thousand data logging dyno runs, our cars have also competed in track events (circuit sprints & rally cross), and drag racing events.

And the best part?

You can easily switch the engine calibration, at home, in a matter of minutes!

Harding Performance is no stranger to E85 ethanol tuning.

Back in 2015, we engineered and competed with the worlds first VW MK7R to run ethanol. In house we designed & specified a full fuel system, including low pressure, high pressure pump systems and fuel lines, and larger MPI injectors & harnesses. The system was thoroughly tested on our dyno, on the street, highway & track, and went on to take out MOTOR Magazines HOT TUNER CHALLENGE!

Fuel & program switching with the Racingline PDM

This is a detailed process for switching fuel and making sure the engine is adjusted properly for the new fuel type. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

1. Drain the fuel tank completely: Try to get most of the old fuel out. Using a diagnostic tool & following our video will speed the process.
2. Let the engine idle and stall: This ensures that any remaining fuel in the system is completely used up.
3. Switch to ethanol: If you’re switching to ethanol, fill the tank with E85 (make sure to test the ethanol content) & switch to the correct ethanol calibration that matches the hardware on the vehicle.
4. Monitor for issues: Watch for hesitation, knock, or timing pull. If you detect problems, back off the throttle and repeat the process.
5. Drive lightly for a few kilometres: This lets the engine adapt to the new map and fuel type before going full throttle.

Ethanol Content Considerations:

1. Ethanol Variability:
   • E85 is commonly labelled as such at the pump, but its ethanol content can vary between 60% to 85%, depending on where you purchase it.
2. Operating Range for Racingline E85 engine software:
   • Most non-flex-fuel vehicles can safely operate on E60 to E85 ethanol, but you must confirm this range for your specific setup. Ethanol content too low or too high can lead to serious issues.
3. Ethanol and Racingline Software:
   • Racingline provides specific tunes for ethanol-based fuel. However, if you’re running ethanol content outside the specified range for the tune, problems can arise.

Power Figures

These figures were measured on our Dynapack 2wd hub dyno during September 2024.

Vehicle details:

Stock – 2022 T-Roc R (no modifications)

Stage 1 98 & E85 – 2022 Golf R (R600 intake and inlet kit)

Stage 1+ 98 & E85 – 2022 T-Roc R (R600 intake, inlet kit & RacingLine intercooler)

Stage 2 98 & E85 – 2022 Golf R (R600 intake, inlet kit, RacingLine intercooler & Milltek catted downpipe)

*note – all tuned power figured listed below are from High Torque ECU calibrations, with RacingLine’s Dynamic TCU Software installed.

View the Technical Document below:

Verification:

To verify the E85 File in your vehicle is running OK, please datalog the ignition, boost and fuelling parameters listed in RacingLine’s technical document.