|
 Click here for the printable version (.pdf)
 Customized Fuel
Between E10 and E85, mid-range ethanol blends are emerging in the market as the latest alternative to standard unleaded fuel. The new variations now available are E20, E30, and E40. Mid-level ethanol blends are created using a "blender pump" by merging appropriate percentages of E85 and unleaded gasoline. For example, an E20 blend uses 24% E85 (containing 85% ethanol) and 76% unleaded fuel. The process is invisible at the pump, and the consumer is merely required to select their desired fuel, as they currently do.
The use of blender pumps offers the greatest fuel flexibility possible.
In theory, any percentage of ethanol can be blended, allowing customized fuel options that best suit each vehicle's optimal blend-level. As researchers continue to explore the many benefits mid-level blends offer, consumers will find themselves with increasing freedom of choice at the pump.
THE BENEFITS
As gas prices continue to rise, mid-range ethanol blends are the cost-efficient solution.
Not only is ethanol generally less expensive than regular gasoline, but it has been shown to increase the gas mileage many non-flex and flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) obtain. Since these alternative fuels are compatible with many of today's vehicles, soon consumers will forego a trip to their local car dealership to save money at the pump... using these new mid-level ethanol blends will mean paying less to drive farther.
Ethanol blends offer an environmentally conscious solution.
All levels of ethanol-infused fuel emit less carbon monoxide and other greenhouse emissions than standard fuel and meet EPA requirements. However, the higher levels of ethanol available through mid-level blends offer more impressive results. Research is finding that using the ideal ethanol blend for a given vehicle dramatically reduces emissions.
Increased usage of mid-level blends ultimately decreases the demand for oil.
Reduced dependency on this nonrenewable resource offers America the opportunity for an economic boost through the growth and development of the ethanol industry on our own soil. Asserting our energy independence and taking control of our fuel supply and demand could also positively impact our national security and foreign policy.
AVAILABILITY
The first states to offer retail blender pumps are South Dakota, Wisconsin, Kansas and Minnesota. However, more and more states are looking at this option. Sales of mid-level ethanol blends show that consumers want this option at the pump. Blender pumps are clearly labeled with their ethanol content and state that mid-level blends E20, E30 and E40 are for flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) only (keeping with current legislation).
RESOURCES
| 
