GOVERNOR PROMOTES USE OF ALTERNATIVE FUEL E-85

p>SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today urged Illinois motorists looking for continued relief from high gasoline prices to consider vehicles that use alternative fuels when purchasing their next car.

More than 50,000 Chicago area motorists already drive Flexible Fuel Vehicles, which give them the option of filling their tank with clean-burning, cost-competitive E-85, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline.

"The extreme run-up in gasoline prices that has caused such concern among the public and has prompted a six-month suspension of the state's share of the sales tax on gasoline, has also led my administration to refocus our efforts on the use of alternative fuels," Ryan said. "When you can save as much as 35 cents per gallon, it makes sense to switch to the more cost efficient alternative when possible. As a bonus, you're also helping to improve Illinois' air quality while helping the Illinois farmer."

Since 1992, the State of Illinois has purchased more than 1,300 Flexible Fuel Vehicles for use in the state fleet.

"With current gas prices well above cost of the flexible fuel E-85, I have directed state employees driving state vehicles to limit their fuel usage to E-85 whenever possible," Ryan said.

Flexible fuel E-85 vehicles have the capability of using E-85 fuel, conventional gasoline, or any combination of the two without modification or changes in driving performance. E-85 is a high performance, clean, renewable fuel that is domestically produced.

Those motorists who have purchased a Model Year 1998, 1999 or 2000 Chrysler, Dodge, or Plymouth minivan with the 3.3 liter V6 engine are capable of using E-85 fuel. All 2000 Ford Taurus and 1998, 1999, or 2000 Ranger Pickup Trucks equipped with the 3.0 liter V6 engine can also use E-85 fuel.

The "Road and Leaf" logo identifies the Ford Taurus and Ranger as flexible fuel vehicles. Model Year 1999 and later Chevrolet S-10 and GMC Sonoma Pickup Trucks with the 2.2 liter, 4 cylinder engine can also use E-85 fuel. Vehicle owners with any questions concerning whether their vehicles can use E-85, should check their owners manual.

"This is a great time to try E-85 because it fights air pollution, costs less than gasoline, and it's made right here at home, which helps our state's economy," said Pam McDonough, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs. "Plus, the Taurus is made in Chicago, so Taurus owners can have the unique distinction of driving a car made in Illinois and fueled with ethanol from Illinois. That's a win-win situation".

A list of gas stations dispensing E-85 is attached.