Experts predict that in just 50 years the amount of CO2 will be 500 ppm in the atmosphere thereby causing global temperatures to rise by 2 degrees. This small increase in temperature has the potential for catastrophic results with the ice cap meltdown and the resulting rise in sea levels by about 20 feet.

In their race to reduce global dependance on fossil fuel, scientists are working hard to develop alternative fuels that can easily replace fossil fuel. Ethanol is a renewable source of energy that is gaining popularity around the world. Brazil produces Ethanol from their sugarcane crop. The United States is investing heavily in corn based Ethanol. Corn-based Ethanol is easy to make, however, it only generates 30% more energy that what is consumed to produce it.

continue reading "Run your car on grass clippings"

In our quest for alternative fuel vehicles, E85 is becoming popular in the US and around the world. E85 refers to a fuel blend containing 85 percent Ethanol and 15 percent gasoline and has been certified as an alternative fuel source by U.S department of energy. Ethanol is considered as a high octane, renewable source of energy and is generally made from corn in the U.S, though in countries such as Brazil it is made from sugar cane.

Vehicles that run on E85 are called as Flex Fuel Vehicles or FFVs.

How can you tell if you have a FFV or a E85 compatible vehicle?

If you have a vehicle whose model is listed below, check the 8th digit of the VIN Number. The FFVs have a special designation in the VIN number to make them easily identifiable.

Ford
8th Digit is a “V”:
Crown Victoria (2006+ 4.6L), Ford F-150 (2006+ 5.4L), Ford Ranger (1999, 2000 3.0L), Lincoln Town Car (2006, 2007 4.6L), Mercury Grand Marquis (2007+ 4.6L)

continue reading "Do you drive a Flex Fuel Vehicle? How can you tell?"