SACRAMENTO, CA -- The manufacturers are all common, everyday names in the automotive industry: Chevy, Ford, Dodge, Isuzu, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Nissan and Toyota. And they all have models that can run a type of ethanol fuel called E85.
However, car owners might not be aware of that fact, according to the president of a flex fuel company with five stations in the Sacramento area.
"It's understandable that you wouldn't know that because nobody's had access to flex fuel, really, in the past," said Rob Elam, President of Propel Fuel. "So they're learning for the first time that it is available."
Most cars that can run on both gas and ethanol are marked or have a yellow gas cap. But you can also find out if your car can use flex fuel by checking the owner's manual, calling your dealer, or checking a list on the Propel Fuels Web site.
Currently, ethanol is running some 60 cents less a gallon than regular gasoline. However, in many cars, gas mileage will run some 10 to 20 percent less.
"But," said Elam, "at 60 cents less a gallon, you take care of that spread!"
News10/KXTV