EPA Allows for the Selling of E15 Fuel for Newer Vehicles

EPA Allows for the Selling of E15 Fuel for Newer Vehicles

A decision on the use of E15 in model year 2001 to 2006 vehicles will be made after EPA receives the results of additional DOE testing, which is expected to be completed in November.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Wednesday, Oct. 13, waived a limitation on selling fuel that is more than 10 percent ethanol for model year 2007 and newer cars and light trucks.

The waiver applies to fuel that contains up to 15 percent ethanol – known as E15 – and only to model year 2007 and newer cars and light trucks.

The ruling is part of an effort to reduce the nation’s reliance on fossil fuels and decrease oil imports.

For more on this issue, click here.

This represents the first of a number of actions that are needed from federal, state and industry towards commercialization of E15 gasoline blends. EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson made the decision after a review of the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) extensive testing and other available data on E15’s impact on engine durability and emissions.

“Thorough testing has now shown that E15 does not harm emissions control equipment in newer cars and light trucks,” said Jackson. “Wherever sound science and the law support steps to allow more home-grown fuels in America’s vehicles, this administration takes those steps.”

To mitigate the impact of its decision, the agency said it will not mandate that gas stations offer the E15 blend. Retailers could begin selling the fuel early next year.

A decision on the use of E15 in model year 2001 to 2006 vehicles will be made after EPA receives the results of additional DOE testing, which is expected to be completed in November.

However, no waiver is being granted this year for E15 use in model year 2000 and older cars and light trucksor in any motorcycles, heavy-duty vehicles, or non-road engines – because currently there is not testing data to support such a waiver.

Since 1979, up to 10 percent ethanol or E10 has been used for all conventional cars and light trucks, and non-road vehicles.

Additionally, several steps are being taken to help consumers easily identify the correct fuel for their vehicles and equipment. First, EPA is proposing E15 pump labeling requirements, including a requirement that the fuel industry specify the ethanol content of gasoline sold to retailers. There would also be a quarterly survey of retail stations to help ensure their gas pumps are properly labeled.

The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 mandated an increase in the overall volume of renewable fuels into the marketplace reaching a 36 billion gallon total in 2022.

Ethanol is considered a renewable fuel because it is produced from plant products or wastes and not from fossil fuels. Ethanol is blended with gasoline for use in most areas across the country.

The E15 petition was submitted to EPA by Growth Energy and 54 ethanol manufacturers in March 2009. In April 2009, EPA sought public comment on the petition and received about 78,000 comments.

The petition was submitted under a Clean Air Act provision that allows EPA to waive the act’s prohibition against the sale of a significantly altered fuel if the petitioner shows that the new fuel will not cause or contribute to the failure of the engine parts that ensure compliance with the act’s emissions limits.

More information: http://www.epa.gov/otaq/regs/fuels/additive/e15/

You May Also Like

Toyota Prius Battery Codes P0A7F, P2011 and P0A80

A second generation Toyota Prius is at least 12 years old and batteries may need to be replaced. Here’s what the codes mean.

Battery pack replacement is becoming more common as hybrid vehicles age. The second-generation Prius started with the 2004 model year and lasted until 2009. They have racked up many miles in the past decade or more, and the nickel-metal hydride battery is probably not providing the same range as before.

Air Ride Diagnostics: Reservoirs and Compressors

The secret to diagnosing air ride problems is knowing what criteria the system uses to regulate the compressor/reservoir and having the right tool.

Mazda SkyActiv Engine Service Tips

These engines have been reliable, but there are four pattern failures you might see.

Honda Indirect TPMS Systems

Honda indirect TPMS systems do not have air pressure sensors inside the tires.

Honda Oil System Inspection

The leading cause of low oil pressure-related complaints with Honda vehicles is the oil level.

Other Posts

Now Available – March’s Digital Edition of ShopOwner

The March issue includes technical and management content and is free to download.

ASE Education Foundation, Goodguys Continue Partnership

Goodguys is one of many industry relationships the foundation has developed to help solve the technician shortage.

Valvoline Celebrates Female Service Center Employees

As women make up more than half of all drivers in the United States, Valvoline is taking steps to increase their vehicle care confidence.

BMW Diagnostics: Low Airflow After Cabin Filter Replacement

Models:  F97 X3 M  F98 X4 M G01 X3 G02 X4 G20 3-Series SITUATION After replacing the microfilter during a previous service, the customer notices that the ventilation system airflow rate is noticeably less. This leads to perceived lower cooling power. The customer may also notice that external odors enter the vehicle. Related Articles –