There have been numerous complaints among car owners about the environmental hazards caused by regular fuel. Luckily, e20 fuel is reconstructing the headline and changing the narratives about fuel usage and its environmental impacts. Since its emergence, it has gained more popularity in India, Brazil and some parts of the U.S. But what exactly is e20 fuel and why should you care about it?
This article will explore everything you need to know about e20 fuel.
What is e20?
e20 is an automotive fuel comprising 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline, an alternative option designed to reduce dependence on petroleum. Ethanol is obtained from plant resources like sugarcane, corn and other biomass. The presence of ethanol in e20 helps reduce the emission of carbon monoxide, a colourless and tasteless gas that may be highly hazardous to human health.
What is Ethanol?
Ethanol is an alcohol product with a chemical formula (C2H5OH) made from renewable biological materials like corn, sugarcane and other biomass. It is commonly found in different alcoholic beverages. But before you get any dangerous ideas, (Ethanol) is not a regular beverage you can take; it is made with denaturants, making it ideal only for car engines.
When used as fuel, it is known as bioethanol. It burns cleaner than pure gas, which means fewer harmful carbon emissions, which is healthy for the planet. It reduces the dependency on regular gas.
What are uses of ethanol?
The following are the uses of ethanol:
- Fuel: Ethanol can be used as a biofuel when blended with gasoline to make fuel (e10, e15 and e20). It can also be used alone as fuel for engines built to run on biofuel. It burns more clearly than other hydrocarbon-based fuels, making it more environmentally friendly.
- Industrial Solvent: Ethanol is also a valuable industrial solvent for diverse products. It can be used for perfumes, cosmetics and even pharmaceuticals.
- Antiseptic: Ethanol is also helpful in the production of various antiseptic products. Its unique composition allows it to destroy bacteria membranes.
Ethanol is a compound product that can produce many other things.
How are ethanol engines different than regular engines?
Ethanol-made fuel, e20, is environmentally friendly and less expensive than regular fuel. However, before you think you have found a perfect substitute for regular fuel, it is essential to know that not all engines are built to run on ethanol-blend fuel. Ethanol has different combustion properties and can be more corrosive than pure gasoline.
Car engines built to run on ethanol blend fuel have the following features:
- Reinforced fuel lines and gaskets
- Different fuel mapping systems
- Higher compression ratios for better efficiency
First, check your car’s engine. If it was built to run on E20, you are good to go. However, if not, you may need to contact your car manufacturer for advice before switching to e20 fuel.
Advantages of e20 fuel
Switching to e20 fuel has numerous benefits for you, your car and the entire planet in the following ways:
- Cost-Effective: e20 fuel is more affordable than regular fuel.
- Lower Emission: e20 fuels release a lower amount of carbon, making them more environmentally friendly. This is one of their benefits to the planet.
- Better Engine Performance: Ethanol has a higher octane rating, which can mean smoother performance.
- Good for Farmers: Since ethanol is made from plants like corn, sugarcane and others, it increases the demand for crops, which is good for farmers.
- Diversification: It reduces the dependency on imported oil, which is good for diversification.
FAQs
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Can I use e20 in my current car?
You need to confirm if your car engine is e20 compatible. If it is, you are good to go. If not, please contact your manufacturer for advice.
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Will e20 affect my car insurance?
No, e20 doesn’t affect your car insurance. However, informing your insurance provider when you want to switch fuel to e20 is essential if it damages your car.
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Is third party car insurance enough if I’m using e20?
Please note that third party insurance only covers damage to other people’s cars; it doesn’t cover your vehicle. Unless you have comprehensive car insurance, you may have to pay if e20 damages your vehicle.
Conclusion
e20 fuel is part of the future of cleaner, greener transportation. If you understand how it works, you can make informed decisions for your car and the planet. However, it is smart to ensure your car engine if e20 damages it.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.