AllSAFE worries about widespread E20 use
AllSAFE, a group representing manufacturers of outdoor power equipment, marine manufacturers, small engine manufacturers as well as motorcycle and automobile manufacturers is warning us about E20. The group released a note stating that it might not be advisable to use mid-level ethanol blends, such as E20, with non-modified engines.Currently, the EPA only allows a 10 percent maximum blend in "standard" gasoline (E10) at the pump. However the State of Minnesota and the Renewable Fuels Association released recently a feasibility study on upping that to a 20 percent blend in the state.
According to AllSAFE, more testing is needed to determine if E20 is really compatible for engines not originally designed for this fuel, as well as potential harm to catalysts, higher emissions and premature engine failure. AllSAFE also said that up to 240 million conventional vehicles and 100 million small engine products could be potentially affected by these blends. Only flexible fueled vehicles (FFVs) are designed, certified and warranted for use with ethanol blends greater than E10.
[Source: AllSAFE]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
MikeW 10:46PM (3/15/2008)
Please, ship the ethanol outside of the corn belt.
I would gladly step down from 10% to 5%, so that 5% can be found in a greater area.
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GenWaylaid 1:54AM (3/16/2008)
What a disgusting backronym. The suggestion that things like motorcycles, ATVs, and jetskis are "all safe" -- unless you use E20 -- is completely absurd. I'll believe E20 is a problem if the result comes from an independent engine testing lab, not a lobbying group throwing out threats.
Really, is this the next battle for the motor industry? Having bickered over CAFE, are they now going to bicker over E10 versus E20?
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ltclloyd 3:44AM (3/16/2008)
The funny thing is most of those vehicles were 2 stroke until recently, and now they think they have a say in what comes to our pumps... Just like the shift to unleaded it will come and there will be "regular" pumps to support you during the transition. I'm ready to Go E50 tomorow. E85 with a $100 injector change.. I say bring it on!
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