Yes, alcohol, specifically in the form of ethanol, is already a widely used fuel for cars, primarily as a blend with gasoline. You won't be pouring pure vodka into your tank, but millions of American drivers use ethanol-blended fuel every day. The most common blend is E10, which is 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline and is approved for use in virtually all modern gasoline vehicles. Flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs), which have specially engineered components, can run on much higher blends like E85 (up to 85% ethanol).
The primary advantage of ethanol is that it's a biofuel, typically made from corn in the U.S., making it a renewable resource that can reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Ethanol also has a high octane rating, which can improve engine performance and resist knocking. However, it has a lower energy density than pure gasoline. This means a gallon of E10 will take you slightly fewer miles than a gallon of pure gasoline—typically a 3-4% reduction in fuel economy.
| Fuel Type | Ethanol Content | Vehicle Compatibility | Key Consideration |
|---|
| E10 | 10% | Nearly all gasoline vehicles | Slight reduction in fuel economy (mpg) |
| E15 | 15% | Model year 2001 and newer cars, light trucks | Approved by EPA for newer vehicles |
| E85 | 51-83% | Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) only | Significantly lower mpg; check owner's manual |
| Pure Gasoline | 0% | All gasoline vehicles | No ethanol-related issues |
Using a fuel with a higher ethanol content than your vehicle is designed for, especially E85 in a non-FFV, can cause serious damage to the fuel system and engine. Always consult your owner's manual. The infrastructure for high-ethanol blends is also less widespread than for standard gasoline. While ethanol is a viable alternative, its practicality depends heavily on your vehicle type and local fuel availability.
