With fuel prices on the rise, Ford continues to demonstrate leadership and commitment to putting alternative fuel vehicles on the road. Since 1996, Ford has sold more than 1.6 million vehicles that run on ethanol, a renewable fuel made from corn or other starch feed stock.
Fill 'Er Up with Ethanol
To harness the power of ethanol, Ford has designed Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFVs). FFVs are "flexible" because you can fill them up with E85 (a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline), regular gasoline or a combination of the two.
The best part about driving a FFV is that it doesn't require a lifestyle change. Just fuel up with E85 or regular gasoline—whichever is more convenient.
Can You Use Ethanol?
Not sure if your vehicle can run on E85? The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) reveals if your vehicle is E85 capable.
To decode your VIN, visit the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition website. You can also look for an E85 label inside your fuel door.
Finding Ethanol Near You
Ford has partnered with VeraSun Energy Corporation to increase the number of stations offering E85. Currently, E85 is available at about 600 stations nationwide. Find an E85 station near you.
FFVs on the Road
Ford plans to produce as many as 250,000 FFVs in 2006. Currently, four vehicle models are available as FFVs: the Ford F-150, Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car.
Benefits of Ethanol
Wondering what all the fuss about using ethanol is about? Consider the benefits of using ethanol:
- Because ethanol is produced from crops, it's renewable and reduces the United States' dependence on imported oil.
- Compared to gasoline, ethanol emits 18-29% less CO2 (greenhouse gas).
- The use of 10% ethanol (E10) in gasoline nationwide would cut gasoline consumption by over 10 billion gallons annually.
- Today, ethanol is produced mainly from corn, but can be made from virtually any starch feed stock such as sugar cane, wheat, or barley.
- Ethanol is biodegradable when spilled.
More Information
To learn more about ethanol and the vehicles it powers, visit the following third-party websites:
