E20 Passes Big Tests
The big difference between ethanol and other vehicle technologies that can help America break its dependence on foreign oil is that ethanol is readily available today. We don’t have to wait for future innovations to start making a dent in the country’s energy problem.
In fact, new research released this week by the State of Minnesota strongly suggests the cars and trucks on
the road today could be using even more ethanol than they already are.
Currently, close to half the gas sold in America contains 10 percent ethanol (E10). Virtually all automakers
warranty their vehicles for it — and many recommend it, because E10 burns cleanly and can improve engine
performance.
The new research concludes that today’s cars and trucks, with no modifications, could just as easily be using
gas that contains a 20 percent blend of ethanol (E20). It would present no problems for current vehicles or fuel dispensing equipment while providing similar power and performance, according to the study.
That finding represents an enormous opportunity to cut into the country’s 12.5 million barrel per day foreign oil habit. As Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty said, “Using homegrown renewable fuel is an important part of
Americanizing our energy future.”
Sources:
“E20 blend passes compatibility, performance tests,” Minnesota Department of Agriculture, March 5, 2008.
Complete E20 Test Results
