Minnesota is proud of the investment made and work accomplished in making the state the national leader in E85 development. E85 is a motor fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. As an alternative to gasoline, E85 ethanol has superior performance characteristics and burns cleaner than gasoline. E85 is a completely renewable, domestic, environmentally friendly fuel that enhances the nation's economy and energy independence. Minnesota E85 statistics as of December 2006: - 312 E85 fueling outlets are operating (or are soon to be opened) in Minnesota.
- Approximately 150,000 flex-fuel vehicles (FFV) have been registered in Minnesota. (About 6 million are on US roadways).
- Approximately 18.2 million gallons of E85 were sold in 2006. This represents a 125% and 600% increase over 2005 and 2004 totals, respectively.
- In 2006, the average price of E85 was 37 to 39 cpg LESS than 87-octane gasoline. This is important as today's FFVs experience a 15% to 20% MPG reduction.
- Approximately $1 million was invested by E85 Team members in 2006 in directly funding E85 station grants, consumer education/marketing tactics, special events, and program staff.
- A minimum of $8 million has been invested in MN E85 development since 1998.
The American Lung Association of Minnesota has housed an 'ad hoc' E85 coalition since 1998, when Minnesota was selected by USDOE as a national E85 pilot market. The Minnesota E85 2007 Team includes: - Minnesota Corn Growers Association
- Minnesota Dept of Agriculture
- Minnesota Dept of Commerce Energy Division
- AgStar Financial Services
- General Motors Corporation
- National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition
- US Dept of Energy Clean Cities
- American Lung Association of Minnesota
MDA Contact Ralph Groschen
Ralph.Groschen@state.mn.us
Agriculture Marketing Specialist
651-201-6223 Ag Marketing & Development Division
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