What is E85?
E85 is a fuel that contains a mixture of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. It is used in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs).
What are flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs)?
FFVs are vehicles engineered to run on either E85 or gasoline. The flexibility of the system is that they can use straight gasoline, straight E85 or any combination of the two.
What is biodiesel?
Biodiesel is a vegetable oil or animal fat-derived fuel that is intended for use in diesel engines. It will not burn in a gasoline engine.
What is a hybrid vehicle?
Hybrids are vehicles that combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor as the power source. Think of them as a “best of both worlds” vehicle.
Do I need a special car and are they hard to find?
It depends on the type of fuel you choose. For example, if you want to use E85, you’ll need a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV). If you want to use biodiesel, you’ll need a diesel. And if you’re leaning towards a natural gas or propane car, you’ll need a specifically manufactured (or converted) vehicle. And obviously, if you’re thinking of utilizing the benefits of a hybrid, that’s what you’ll need. If you’d like to calculate the individual cost of the specific hybrid that you’re looking at, use this Cost Calculator Tool.
As far as availability, the most readily abundant in the United States are FFVs. Next easiest to find would be a hybrid; manufacturers are building more and more versions of popular models. Diesels are gaining in popularity and manufacturers are taking a second look at offering more models in the United States. The most challenging to find? Probably a propane or natural gas vehicle—they must be special ordered through a dealer, or a conversion can be done by a qualified mechanic.
How much does an alternative fuel vehicle cost? Won’t it cost more?
Again, it really depends on the type of vehicle you choose, and how long you plan to keep it:
- Hybrids can cost several thousand dollars more than a regular car. While they still use gasoline, their fuel economy will actually save money over the life of the car.
- Flex-fuel vehicles (those that burn E85) are comparable in cost to similar gasoline cars, and E85 tends to cost less than gasoline, though prices can vary greatly across the United States.
- Any diesel can use biodiesel, so no special vehicle is necessary. In general, diesel vehicles cost more than their gasoline counterparts though they generally deliver better fuel mileage. The cost of biodiesel is comparable (sometimes less) than petroleum diesel fuel.
- A propane or natural gas vehicle’s price tag can be several thousand dollars higher than one powered by gasoline, yet they offer longer service life and higher fuel economy that can offset their greater initial cost. An added bonus: The price of the fuel tends to be lower than gasoline.
Is alternative fuel hard to find?
It’s getting easier all the time. Alternative fueling stations are available in all 50 states—find out where the filling stations are near you. Propane and natural gas filling stations tend to be concentrated in larger metropolitan areas, and may be trickier to find in rural areas. However, if natural gas is available where you live, there is equipment available to install a filling station right in your own garage.
Can I get a tax rebate or incentive?
In the United States, there are several federal incentives and tax rebates available depending upon the kind of alternative fuel or vehicle you choose. Here are the incentives and credits that may apply to you—fleets, businesses and producers may qualify for additional incentives:
- Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit
- Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit
- Hybrid Motor Vehicle Credit
- Fuel Cell Motor Vehicle Credit
- Electric Vehicle Tax Credit
Also, depending upon the state in which you reside, there are additional rebates and incentives available. Search this database by technology type (ethanol, biodiesel, etc.) and state.
Where can I get it repaired?
Sometimes help is just a phone call away. Your local dealership or neighborhood mechanic may be qualified to work on your vehicle—just ask. Here are a few things to be aware of:
- FFVs – They can be repaired at any qualified shop. However, fuel system repairs must be made with E85 compliant parts.
- Hybrids – The complex drive trains may limit engine, motor, transmission repairs to specialized shops and dealerships.
- Propane & Natural Gas – You’ll need a dealership or shop that specializes in propane or natural gas fuel systems.
- Diesels or Biodiesels – They may be repaired at any shop or dealer that works on diesels.
Do I have to drive differently?
No. However, to take advantage of the fuel economy of hybrids, it helps to have a gentle foot on the throttle. But then again, most cars’ fuel mileage will improve with gentle driving.