Earlier this week API highlighted new research by the Coordinating Research Council (CRC) on serious potential problems with vehicle fuel systems when operated on E15 fuel – gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol.

In addition to CRC’s research, we want to call attention to a recent paper from Oak Ridge National Lab (ORNL) that was published by the Society for Automotive Engineers (SAE).  This study examined the effects of E15 on malfunction indicator lights (MIL), also known as “check engine lights.”

As might be expected given the source sponsoring the SAE paper, the study attempts to downplay the risk of a substantial number of MIL illuminations with E15 and with E20.  Nevertheless, two of the main conclusions (from the last page of the paper) are very telling and support the concer... more »

There’s new research showing E15 (15 percent ethanol) fuel could damage vehicles, potentially stranding motorists and/or saddling them with expensive repair bills – one of a number of reasons the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) should be scrapped.

Following on a report last spring that said E15 could damage engines and cars and trucks, the Coordinating Research Council (CRC) has a new study that found E15 can mess up fuel pump systems and fuel measurement systems, potentially affecting “millions and millions” of vehicles, Bob Greco, API downstream and industry operations director, said in a conference call with reporters. Greco:

“This additional E15 testing, completed this month, has identified an elevated incidence of fuel pump failures, fuel system component swelling and impairmen... more »

Last week’s call by AAA for a halt in the sale of gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol – because E15 could damage vehicle engines and void car manufacturers’ warranties – triggered the kind of response you’d expect from the Renewable Fuels Association, ethanol’s biggest supporter.

RFA President and CEO Bob Dinneen’s statement pulled no punches in going after AAA’s position. Unfortunately, a number of Dinneen’s remarks are – well, off the mark. A point-by-point analysis, here.

AAA says the EPA and retailers should stop the sale of gasoline containing 15 percent ethanol, known as E15, because it could damage vehicle engines and void car manufacturers’ warranties. AAA’s statement:

"A recent survey by AAA finds a strong likelihood of consumer confusion and the potential for voided warranties and vehicle damage as a result of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent approval of E15 gasoline. An overwhelming 95 percent of consumers surveyed have not heard of E15, a newly approved gasoline blend that contains up to 15 percent ethanol. With little consumer knowledge about E15 and less than five percent of cars on the road approved by automakers to use the fuel, AAA is urging regulators and the industry to stop the sale of E15 until motorists are better... more »