5 of 5

Write now Article Tools

Although E85 is most commonly used in Sweden as a fuel source, it is quickly spreading across the United States and Canada where corn is a major crop, and is the primary source material for ethanol fuel production. E85 is a fairly new trend in environmentally prospective vehicles in that it uses a combination of 85% ethanol and 15% petrol. E85 emits up to 80% less fossil carbon dioxide emissions then petrol alone making a great alternative to gas-powered vehicles. This is achieved by factoring in the carbon dioxide absorbed by the crop as it grows before being harvested for bioethanol production. Also known as Flex-Fuel or Flexi-Fuel, these vehicles can run on any combination of ethanol and petrol. Therefore if you cannot find a gas station offering E85, the tank may be filled on petrol until the next station carrying E85 is found. These innovative engines monitor and automatically modify the injection and ignition timing to optimal performance using not only less gas but producing less emissions.

Although there is not a large abundance of E85 vehicles in the UK, the two that they offer came in the Top 10 Green Cars of the Year, voted by the "Green-Car-Guide" an online magazine published in the UK. According to the Top 10 list the 1.8 L Ford Focus FFV (flex-fuel vehicle) and the Saab BioPower are two of the most popular environmentally friendly cars on the market in the UK today. The Ford Focus offers the dependability and safety of their other vehicles but makes an environmentally conscious effort for its drivers. This year Sabb was awarded the 2007 Environment Award in World Fleet Honours, proving they are on top of their game when it comes to conserving energy and protecting our environment. If you think it may be difficult to decide between these two fantastic vehicles, Volvo UK is in production of the V70 Estate and the S80 Execution Saloon both with the option of Flex Fuel.

If find more information on Green Cars in the UK visit www.green-car-guide.com.
e

Learn more about this author, Alison Ross.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about What is a flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV)??
We want to hear your view. Write now!