The high cost of gasoline, concerns about our nation’s dependence on foreign oil and warnings about global warming, are generating increased interest in alternative fuels such as E85. Compared to today’s gasoline/ethanol blends that have up to 10 percent ethanol, E85 is composed of 85 percent ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and just 15 percent petroleum.
For businesses considering how FFVs fit into a fleet management program, cost is always a concern. Generally, manufacturers offer FFVs at the same prices as comparable gasoline vehicles. The U.S. Department of Energy also offers an online tool that calculates cost by type of vehicle and state based on availability of fueling locations. The calculator is available at http://www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/progs/cost_anal.php?0/E85/
In addition to costs, other considerations include the following:
- Tax Credits and Incentives: FFVs may qualify for tax credits or incentives in accordance with requirements for alternative fuel vehicle mandated fleets under the Energy Policy Act of 1992.
- Flexible Fueling Options: The FFV system allows the driver to use any combination of gasoline or ethanol – from 100 percent unleaded gasoline to 85 percent ethanol. This means a driver can use unleaded gasoline if ethanol is not available.
- Educate Drivers: While FFVs may use either regular gasoline or E85, gasoline only vehicles should not use E85.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Preliminary studies indicate that maintenance costs may actually be reduced for FFVs because of the way E85’s cleaner exhaust emission impacts the engine’s operation/performance.
Jay de la Houssaye, Area Sales Manager for Enterprise Fleet Management/Louisiana, can be reached at 504-779-3321. Visit the company’s web site at www.enterprisefleet.com or call toll free 1-877-23-FLEET.