EPA Requests 15% Ethanol in Gasoline

The EPA recently announced that there will be a new fuel mixture available, and that they would like auto engineers to plan on having cars from here on out compatible with running on15% ethanol.  Currently, the cars at Haverhill Volvo Dealers as well as any other car on the market can run on the current low grade fuels that contain 10% ethanol.  Despite all the New Car Specials Warwick, there is still a concern about using such a high percentage ethanol in the fuel.

Vehicles from Dayton Nissan that are older report problems from the ethanol.  Auto engineers and mechanics are aware that the ethanol rots fuel lines, and that it will eventually lead to engine damage.  The EPA likes using ethanol in the gasoline because it reduces emissions that are put into the environment by 19% and it is a renewable resource. 

People who work on cars caution people who drive old vehicles to not use the low grade fuel right now that contains 10% ethanol.  These older engines and components can’t handle the ethanol and they are more susceptible to engine damage.  Also, people who put gas in their boats, motorcycles, ATVs, lawn mowers, and chain saws are already paying for the top level gasoline.  If an even higher percentage ethanol fuel was available, it is likely premium gas prices would increase.

This issue raises again how “green” corn ethanol really and truly is.  While it is beneficial to be using a renewable resource rather than fossil fuels that have a limited supply, there is a hefty added cost for these resources.  Corn prices are now going up, which also causes meat farmers to raise their prices because it costs more to feed their livestock.  The equipment and water used to produce the corn is also taking an environmental toll. 

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