Green Energy: What is Flex Fuel?

Flex fuel is used in flexible fuel vehicles that accept both standard gasoline as well as e85. E85 is a mixture of 85% ethanol fuel combined with 15 percent gasoline. Flexible fuel vehicles are produced by many manufacturers including Chrysler, Ford, and Chevy. Many international car manufacturers are also compatible with E85 ethanol fuel including Mercedes, Toyota, and Nissan. This fuel is marketed as a environmentally friendly product that reduces our dependence on oil and is less harmful to the planet. Flex fuel is a relatively new alternative energy, first produced on modern vehicles in 1999, though many current models are based on flex fuel. Flex fuel is gaining traction across America as well as internationally through many foreign car manufacturers.

One benefit noted about E85 is that is burns cleaner than typical gasoline and reduces the dependence America has on oil both domestically as well as internationally. Typical gasoline now sold in gas stations across the country use a ethanol gasoline hybrid that uses about 90% gasoline and 10% ethanol. This is usually noted on the gas pump in consumer view. This is a better formula for the environment but gas mileage decreases in comparison with 100% gasoline fuel. Another main benefit derived from flex fuel is that is produces less harmful emissions that negatively effect the environment. It is also nontoxic and a biodegradable substance.

Flex fuel, or E85 gas stations are not as widespread as one would imagine. The amount of flex fuel stations continues to increase across the United States but there may not be a local station in your area. The best resource to find a local station or your nearest e85 flex fuel station is to check out http://www.e85refueling.com/ and do a search based upon your state. This website lists every flex fuel station in the country and also include a map for easy directions. The number ethanol stations is sure to increase so I would check back every few months to find out if new stations have been built. The most popular area for flex fuel stations seems to be the midwest which has the largest concentration of stations in America.

One typical gripe or concern consumers bring up is that flex fuel is known to decrease fuel mileage slightly. You will need to determine if this is a sacrifice you can live with, for example, your vehicle may go from 22mpg to 16mpg. This is a significant change that will ultimately effect your wallet. On the other hand, the environment needs to be protected and this is an alternate fuel that is much safer and better for the environment.

Sources:

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/alternative-fuels/how-e85-ethanol-flex-fuel-works1.htm

http://www.e85fuel.com/e85101/flexfuelvehicles.php

http://www.charityguide.org/volunteer/fifteen/e85-ethanol.htm