E15 is rapidly growing in popularity, with consumers surpassing 9 billion miles driven on the fuel. Some of the benefits of E15 are immediately evident, like the fact that it can save drivers from $0.05 and at times up to $0.10 per gallon compared to regular E10. And consumers like that ethanol is a cleaner-burning fuel, which they feel is a bit better for their engine and the air they breathe. As use of E15 is becoming more widespread, auto engine experts, certified auto technicians and mechanics are recommending the fuel to their customers.
“Unleaded88 provides an octane boost compared to regular 87 octane fuel, which helps modern engines achieve peak performance while reducing costs for the consumer. Modern engines that typically use 87 octane fuel will thrive on Unleaded88,” said Dr. Andrew Randolph, General Motors former head of advanced engine development.
The main driver for auto experts recommending E15 is due to the increased octane content. Higher octane fuels lower the propensity of an engine to “knock,” enabling the engine to operate effectively at higher pressures and temperatures while creating more power.
Service station operators have seen great success offering 15% ethanol blends at their retail fuel locations because once customers understand that they are getting more octane for less money, it becomes an easy choice that they continue to return to. When evaluating E15, it’s easy to see why automotive technicians and experts are supportive of using higher ethanol blends.
Steve Anderson, Minnoco AAA Approved Auto Repair Facility, & ASE Certified Automobile Service Consultant manages two different locations, selling ethanol blends since 2014.
“I am amazed at the shift of customers choice to higher ethanol-blended fuels. Less than five years ago it was not available here,” said Anderson. “Today it has a loyal following and is a large contributor to our overall volume. We have seen great success in offering Unleaded88 to our customers. Once they understand that they are getting more octane for less money, they continue to reach for it at the pump again and again.”
Joel Hennen, a third-generation operator/owner and Auto technician at Hennen’s Auto Service, has been working as a full-time auto technician since 1989.
“In 2013, we rebranded to Minnoco fuels and started offering E85, E30, and Unl88 to our customers,” said Hennen. “We have had a positive response from offering these higher-level blends of ethanol. I have been impressed by how clean and cool it burns in the combustion chamber. I recommend Unleaded88 to my customers because it’s a smart fuel choice. It delivers more octane and burns cleaner, both of which benefit their engines.”
Drivers get the octane and fuel performance their cars need without paying a premium, while also making a more environmentally-friendly choice at the pump. Reaching for E15 at the pump is a smart choice for engines and pocketbooks, while also being kinder to the Earth — something mechanics and their customers can all get behind.