MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL, MN – The University of Minnesota (U of M) is in the early stages of a 14-month-long study of E-20, an experimental biofuel that contains 20 percent ethanol. The state of Minnesota has contracted with the U of M to conduct a year-long drivability evaluation as the state aims to increase the use of alternative fuels in the state. The Council of Great Lakes Governors has supplied additional funding in support of the project. Results of the study will help the state pursue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) waiver.

By August 2013, state law will require all gasoline sold in Minnesota to contain 20 percent alcohol by volume. Minnesota has required 10 percent ethanol in gasoline since 1997. In order for this requirement to take effect, the EPA must certify E-20 as a motor fuel through a waiver under the Clean Air Act.

Eighty vehicles out of the university’s fleet of 525 on the Twin Cities campus have been chosen for this test. As a control group, 40 of the vehicles have been running on a base fuel containing no ethanol. The other 40 are running on E-20 fuel. The 40 pairs represent a cross section of vehicles with a variety of manufacturers and engine sizes, including hybrid vehicles.

Drivers regularly complete surveys measuring vehicle performance and driver experience. The university handles all vehicle maintenance at the Fleet Services Building. Mechanics have been monitoring mechanical problems and recording any drivability issues. During the first three months, no drivability issues have been noted.

The University of Minnesota has a fleet size of approximately 850, including 15 hybrids and 70 vehicles that run on E-85, with an additional 13 hybrid vehicles on order. Each year, university vehicles travel nearly 6.5 million miles. Along with its rental and lease services, the Fleet Services conducts driver training programs for the university and maintains a full-service shop on campus. Fleet Services is also charged with fulfilling federal mandates concerning commercial vehicle and driver regulations and Clean Air Act regulations pertaining to alternatively fueled vehicles.