Ethanol in gasoline rips off consumers
by Frank J. Macchiarola
U.S. oil and natural gas producers are shattering records — recently overtaking Saudi Arabia and Russia to lead the world in crude oil production.
Fueled by advanced technology, the American energy resurgence is paying off for consumers and shielding U.S. markets from instability overseas.
But drivers may need extra cash to pay the mechanic if federal regulators keep forcing more ethanol into the fuel supply.
Multiple industries have long warned about the risks of higher-ethanol fuels like E15 (15 percent ethanol), which extensive testing shows can damage engines and fuel systems.
Nearly three out of every four vehicles on the road today are not designed for E15 gasoline, and a number of automakers have even said that E15 may cause damage that is not covered by warranties.