E85 is the term for motor fuel blends of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. E85 is an alternative fuel as defined by the U.S. Department of Energy and is intended for use in flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs).Besides its superior performance characteristics, ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline; it is a completely renewable, domestic, environmentally friendly fuel that enhances the nation's economy and energy independence.

• FFVs can be fueled on any blend of ethanol and gasoline, from 0% ethanol and 100% gasoline up to 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline (E85).
• FFVs are fully warranted and are usually at no extra cost to the consumer. To safely and effectively operate a vehicle on E85, the vehicle must be compatible with alcohol use. Aftermarket conversion of gasoline-powered vehicles to ethanol-fueled vehicles, although possible, is not recommended because of the changes in component materials necessary, the high cost, and the need for extensive calibration.

Today, the U.S. imports more than half of its oil and overall consumption continues to increase. By supporting ethanol production and use, U.S. drivers can help reverse that trend. E85 can reduce pollution. Government tests have shown that E85 vehicles reduce harmful hydrocarbon and benzene emissions when compared to vehicles running on gasoline. E85 can also reduce carbon dioxide (CO2), a harmful greenhouse gas and a major contributor to global warming.

Although CO2 is released during ethanol production and combustion, it is recaptured as a nutrient to the crops that are used in its production. Unlike fossil fuel combustion, this unlocks carbon that has been stored for millions of years, use of ethanol results in low increases to the carbon cycle.

Ethanol also degrades quickly in water and, therefore, poses much less risk to the environment than an oil or gasoline spill.

Click on the links listed below to find additional information on E85, fueling locations in IL as well as nationwide and most importantly find out what vehicles are capable of running on E85.


American Lung Association of Illinois – Iowa www.lungil.org/il/environment/programs_ethanol.asp

Illinois Green Fleets www.illinoisgreenfleets.org  (IL E85 Fueling Stations)

National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition www.e85fuel.com (US E85 Fueling Stations)