E85 alternative fuel struggling to take off

An alternative fuel blend made mostly of corn is struggling to take off in the US market, despite its environmentally-friendly appeal, ABC Action News has reported.

The E85 fuel is produced in America and has reached the pumps in the Tampa Bay area, in Florida, US. Bollinger’s Auto Service is currently dispensing the fuel at its pump, but has reported that consumers have been slow to take to the alternative fuel source.

Ted Bollinger, owner of the garage, said he is very happy to supply the fuel. It is made from a blend of 85 per cent Ethanol made from corn and 15 per cent gasoline. It is compatible with most of the newer American-made vehicles, and also produces less greenhouse emissions.

Steve Reich with USF’s Center for Urban Transportation Research said that another major advantage is that it is a renewable fuel. This is both economically attractive and also appeals to patriotic consumers who like to use home-made produce (a rarity in the fuel market).

However, the fuel has been slow to take off in the region, primarily because it can decrease gas mileage considerably. Experts have estimated that the loss is around 20 to 30 per cent per gallon, depending on the car, which is driving many consumers away from buying it.

Posted by Lauren Steadman