While ethanol has been added to fuel for decades, not everyone understands why. Below are some E15 basics and a list of questions frequently asked by retailers.
E15 – unleaded gasoline mixed with 15 percent ethanol – is approved for use by the EPA for cars 2001 and newer.
The cost of higher ethanol blends, like E15, are typically less expensive than the standard E10 grade.
Consumers are finding that E15 is a smart choice for their engines and allows them to choose a fuel that is cleaner burning. Consumers have already purchased enough E15 to drive nearly 35 billion miles.
Retailers are also discovering that offering a flex fuel blend like E85 is another revenue stream that helps differentiate their location. Sales at locations that offer both E15 and E85 continue to climb as consumers keep reaching for these higher blends.
Higher ethanol blends are the cost-efficient solution.
Ethanol is historically less expensive than conventional gasoline, meaning the higher the ethanol blend, typically the less expensive the fuel. Research has shown mid-level blends offer similar mileage so choosing E15 is a cost-effective choice for consumers.
Ethanol blends offer an environmentally conscious solution. All levels of ethanol-enriched fuel emit less toxins, such as carbon monoxide and other greenhouse emissions than conventional gasoline and meet EPA requirements. However, the higher levels of ethanol available through alternative blends offer even better results.
Price Advantage. By offering ethanol blended fuels retailers gain a competitive advantage over competitors.
E15 is approved for use with 2001 and newer vehicles, which represent over 95 percent of the vehicles on the road today
When retailers are interested in adding E15, they can easily add the fuel to new build locations or locations where they are remodeling or replacing fuel equipment. In many cases, retailers are also adding E15 to their fuel mix using existing equipment. Infrastructure at retail locations can be unique, but Growth Energy has assisted with more than 2,200 installations and can help you determine the best path for your site. Growth Energy can help you with determining what equipment is best for your location, regulatory, technical and marketing activities will help you be successful with higher ethanol blends. Contact Growth Energy using the form below.
Growth Energy has developed a P.O.P. and station imaging kit to assist retailers in advertising the availability of high- and mid-level blends of ethanol. We can help you with dispenser imaging, screen videos and other promotional tools to help differentiate your location versus your competitors. Contact Growth Energy Market Development using the form below to learn more about these valuable tools.
There are more than 27 million FFVs on America’s highways today. There are 5,500 fueling stations that carry higher ethanol blends, across the nation and more are being added every week.
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