E85 is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline designed for use in flexible fuel vehicles. It is renewable, high-performance, and clean-burning. Its use is increasing, especially in the Midwest, and major car manufacturers have been building flex-fuel vehicles since 1999. The biggest hurdle is awareness and availability.
E85 is a usable fuel that is made from a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% unleaded gasoline. E85 is designed for use in flexible fuel vehicles, or vehicles with an engine designed to run on any ethanol blend up to 85%. As of 2006, the US Department of Energy classifies it as an alternative fuel.
There are many benefits to this fuel, including the primary source of ethanol used in the blend. Corn is the most common source, making it a renewable resource. In addition, the fuel is high performance, clean burning and ecological.
Although e85 is not as common as unleaded gasoline, it is being used more and more, especially in the Midwest where corn crops are plentiful. Many of the major motor vehicle manufacturers, including Daimler Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Isuzu, and Nissan, have been building flex-fuel vehicles since early 1999, and the number has increased each year. The potential for decreased reliance on crude oil is one reason the use of e85 is being closely watched. It is not difficult for retail gas stations to convert to e85 and there are a growing number of stations that offer the fuel. Although fuel consumption is reduced by 10-15% with use of the fuel, the price has traditionally been lower than unleaded gasoline, thus far at US$0.80 per gallon (about 3.8 liters ).
The biggest hurdle facing the industry is increased awareness and availability. Although flex fuel is an option that can be ordered with a new vehicle at little or no additional cost, many people are unaware that their newer vehicles are e85 compatible. Check your vehicle owner’s manual to see if you have a flex fuel vehicle. If your manual does not state that you can use this fuel, it is not compatible. If you’re looking for a new vehicle, the flex fuel option may be a sensible option if it’s available.
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