[1] Initially used for higher octane Super Unleaded petrol/gasoline (formerly known as Optimax in some regions), it is now additionally used for high specification diesel fuel.

Generally, in most areas of the world, the Research Octane Number (RON) is used, but in North America, the Anti-Knock Index (AKI) is used.

Like most[quantify] Super Plus Unleaded petrols[further explanation needed], V-Power also contains higher concentrations of detergents and other additives to help clean the engine and smooth its operation.

[7] In Germany, all Shell stations offer V-Power Racing 100, rated at 100 RON.

[citation needed] In Australia, from October 2006, Shell and Coles Express re-branded Optimax to V-Power (98 RON).

[11] In Hong Kong, as there is no oil refinery plant, gasoline was imported from Singapore, which is 98 RON.

[citation needed] Such a figure was not supported by any actual test, nor was it confirmed by Shell and was contradicted by a report of the Legislative Council of Hong Kong.

This is offset, as the fuel tends to ignite more readily (and thus has a higher cetane rating) than regular diesel, and a side benefit of this is that it tends to produce less soot during combustion.

[17] Shell also markets a different "premium" diesel in Canada labeled V-Power, which they state "Is specially formulated for year-round Canadian weather conditions, with a cetane improver, a de-icer and a corrosion inhibitor.".

Since 2016 Shell V-Power has been sponsoring Dick Johnson Racing in the Supercars Championship.

For example, on the streets of Warsaw, Poland, where Scuderia Ferrari driver Felipe Massa drove the race car used in 2013 Formula One Championship.