E85 is a renewable fuel choice.
E85 is a mix of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline and is produced from plant feedstocks. Today most ethanol in the U.S. is made from corn, but in the near future, ethanol may be made from other renewable resources including perennial grasses, crop residues, straw, and fast-growing trees. Ethanol from these materials and corn combined may eventually replace up to 40% of the gasoline we currently use.
Flexible fuel vehicles can operate on gasoline or E85.
Flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) are able to run on gasoline, E85, or any combination of each. According to EPA estimates, the fuel economy of today’s FFVs is 20% to 25% lower when running on E85, because ethanol contains less energy per gallon than gasoline. The price of E85, however, is typically 10% to 30% lower than gasoline, offsetting the loss in fuel economy. Flexible fuel vehicles are distinguished by logos on the back of the vehicle, and they often have yellow fuel caps.
E85 is widely available.
The number of E85 fueling stations continues to increase throughout the country. To find an E85 station near you, check the Alternative Fueling Station Locator at www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/locator/stations. This tool is also available on your mobile device at www.afdc.energy.gov/stations/m.