Discover Why Gasoline Contains Ethanol and Its Impact on Your Engine’s Performance – Insights from Jalopnik

People have experimented with ethanol in combustion engines for a long time. Nicolaus Otto, who created the four-cycle engine, used ethanol back in 1876. In the 1920s and 1930s, it became a popular additive to boost gasoline performance. Interest in ethanol surged in the 1970s due to gas shortages and environmental concerns. Many saw it as a cleaner-burning alternative to gasoline, sourced from renewable crops like corn produced in the U.S. However, today’s discussions about ethanol often mix facts with feelings, leading to debate on its true benefits.

So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of ethanol? First, ethanol helps prevent engine knocking, especially in the common 90/10 gasoline-ethanol mix found at most pumps. Ethanol has a higher octane rating, which is beneficial for engine performance. However, while ethanol is cheaper, it contains less energy per gallon than gasoline, affecting fuel efficiency.

There are also environmental claims. Ethanol burns cleaner and reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline, although some studies indicate that considering the entire process of producing ethanol—from farming to processing—may result in more emissions overall. This mixed evidence can make it tough to reach a consensus. Corn is renewable, but its conversion to fuel raises questions about food resources as well.

So, how does ethanol affect your vehicle? Most cars made since the 2000s are designed to run on the gasoline-ethanol blend. However, older cars might have issues due to ethanol’s chemical properties. Ethanol can damage rubber and plastic parts often found in older engines, leading to potential failures. It also absorbs moisture from the air, which can create rust and corrosion in the fuel system.

Using E85 fuel, which has 85% ethanol, increases both the benefits and risks. It’s essential to use E85 only in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) designed to handle it. Interestingly, around 20 million FFVs are still on the road today, but only a handful of new models will be flex-fuel-capable by 2025, showing a decline in the market’s focus on ethanol-powered vehicles.

Given the ongoing debate, public opinion often sways on social media. Some users praise ethanol for its sustainability, while others criticize its hidden costs and environmental impact. It’s a complex topic that affects everyone from consumers to policymakers, providing plenty of food for thought.

For a deeper understanding, check out findings from the U.S. Department of Energy, which sheds light on the benefits and challenges of ethanol in our energy mix.

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