Advantages of Ethanol Gas

When fuel prices increase, consumers begin looking for alternatives to fuel their vehicles. One alternative is ethanol, an organic fuel made from corn and other organic materials. Today, flex-fuel vehicles can run on E85, a fuel that is 85 percent ethanol. What are the advantages of this fuel? Should more money be put into research on this alternative fuel source?

Renewable

Ethanol gas is a plant-based fuel, which means it can be made from a renewable resource. This is advantageous over traditional fuels, which are only available in limited quantities.

Better for Environment

Burning ethanol produces less pollution. Because ethanol is created with more organic material than traditional gasoline, it puts fewer toxins into a car's exhaust and, ultimately, into the atmosphere.

Less Dependence on Imported Oil

In countries without large supplies of oil, like the United States, using ethanol gas will decrease the demand for foreign oil by as much as 85 percent. Some petroleum is needed for E85, today's most common ethanol-based fuel, but switching to ethanol reduces the need to import oil significantly.

Less Cost at the Pump

Because ethanol does not use as much foreign oil as traditional fuel, it is cheaper to purchase on the consumer end.

Less Expensive to Convert

Cars that run on ethanol are not excessively expensive when compared to other alternative fuel vehicles. The price is comparative to a car that runs on traditional gasoline alone.

Resources

• E85 - Will It Save You Money?
• Ethanol Fuel - More Advantageous Than Thought