In this episode, John Eichberger and Gen Comtois unpack the Transportation Energy Institute's latest white paper on mid-level ethanol blends and what moving beyond E15 could mean for the future of transportation fuels. They explore the opportunities higher ethanol blends present for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving octane performance, strengthening energy security, and supporting rural economies, while also addressing the real-world challenges of vehicle compatibility, fueling infrastructure, regulatory approval, and consumer adoption.
• Why declining gasoline demand is increasing interest in ethanol blends above E15.
• How mid-level ethanol blends could help reduce transportation-sector carbon emissions.
• The role of ethanol's high-octane properties in enabling more efficient future engines.
• The economic impact of ethanol on consumers, fuel markets, and rural communities.
• Why vehicle compatibility and misfueling concerns remain major barriers to adoption.
• The infrastructure investments and policy changes needed to support broader deployment.
• What coordinated action among automakers, fuel providers, regulators, retailers, and consumers would be required to move the market forward.
A balanced discussion of the benefits, challenges, and practical realities shaping the next chapter of ethanol in the U.S. fuel landscape.
