E15 approval for use in two-thirds of vehicles

A Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) analysis of model year (MY) 2015 warranty statements and owner's manuals shows that auto manufacturers explicitly approve the use of E15 (15% ethanol, 85% petrol) in approximately two-thirds of new vehicles.

The US EPA approves E15 for all 2001 and newer vehicles, which make up approximately 80% of vehicles on today's roads.

Based on recent vehicle sales and market share data, almost 63% of MY 2015 vehicles will be given definite E15 approval from their manufacturers. Along with expected MY 2015 flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) production, estimates show E15 will be allowed in nearly 70% of MY 2015 vehicles. Up to 85% ethanol blends in FFVs have been approved by manufacturers.

'This election day — and every day — Americans want the freedom to choose what fuel to put into their vehicles. For years, Big Oil has monopolised the market and limited that choice. But, today's analysis should send a clear message to the EPA and Congress that E15 is here to stay. Even with falling gas prices, ethanol remains the lowest cost liquid transportation fuel on the planet. If EPA reverses course and embraces the statutory levels of the renewable fuel standard, E15 and higher level ethanol blends will propel our country past the so-called 'blend wall' and increased biofuels use will move our country to a clean and sustainable future,' says Bob Dinneen, president and CEO of the RFA.