The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted a waiver allowing the sale of fuel containing 15% ethanol for new cars and trucks.
Legislation allowing up to 10% ethanol or E10 to be sold for all cars and light trucks was first introduced in 1979.
Now vehicles from model year 2007 onwards will be able to use fuel containing up to 15% ethanol or E15, following a review of test results and other data of 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,” says EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson.
Older cars and trucks will have to await further test data from the Department of Energy, expected in November, before a decision on whether they too can use E15 will be made.
To help consumers figure out which fuel is appropriate for their vehicle, the EPA is proposing bringing in E15 pump labelling requirements, including a requirement for suppliers to specify the ethanol content of fuel sold to retailers.
The US Government has set a target under the Renewable Fuel Standard of achieving 36 billion gallons of renewable fuels on the market by 2022.
Critics argue, however, that biofuel standards are driving up food prices and increasing the numbers of those going hungry as land is converted from food production.