Petersen Automotive Museum To Host Alternative Fuel Symposium
The Petersen Automotive Museum will host its first public alternative fuels symposium titled “Why Alt Fuels Now” on April 18. The event, which features a public symposium and an alternative fuel technology display, will explore the driving forces – such as high gasoline prices, increased consumer and corporate environmental awareness and the emergence of new technology – that have created a “perfect storm” for alternative fuel vehicles.
Directions: Selling The Fuel-Cell
A collaborative partnership between Daimler, Ford and Renault-Nissan was announced to begin mass producing hydrogen-fueled fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the next four years.
Directions: Are You Ready for the Most Tested Fuel in History?
In mid-August, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit dismissed a lawsuit that challenged the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) authority to grant a partial waiver for 15% ethanol (E15) content in gasoline for 2001 and newer model year cars and light trucks.
Obama Administration Finalizes 54.5 MPG Fuel Efficiency Standards
In total, the Administration’s national program to improve fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions will save consumers more than $1.7 trillion at the gas pump and reduce U.S. oil consumption by 12 billion barrels.
SEMA Says Court’s Ethanol Decision Jeopardizes Historic Vehicles, Specialty Parts
SEMA says it opposes E15 based on scientific evidence that it causes corrosion with incompatible parts. Ethanol increases water formation, which can then create formic acid and corrode metals, plastics and rubber, the association says. In light of the court’s decision, SEMA says it is now turning to the U.S. Congress to enact legislation to ban the sale of E15.
Tech Talk – Engine Innovations to Reach Government Fuel Standards
In recent years, the primary driving force behind engine innovation has been the never-ending quest for better fuel economy with little or no sacrifice in performance. Government regulations and rising fuel prices are forcing automakers to develop new technologies and powertrains that squeeze more power out of every drop of fuel while producing less pollution and greenhouse gas (carbon dioxide) emissions.
Directions: U.S. House Votes to Put the Brakes on E15
In February, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment blocking federal funding of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) action to implement the use of E15.
Delphi Fuel Pumps Compatible with New E15 Measure from EPA
Delphi announces that its OE-quality fuel products are compatible with the new E15 measure approved recently by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to increase the amount of ethanol currently blended in fuel from 10 percent to 15 percent for all light-duty vehicles built in the last decade.
EPA Allows for the Selling of E15 Fuel for Newer Vehicles
A decision on the use of E15 in model year 2001 to 2006 vehicles will be made after EPA receives the results of additional DOE testing, which is expected to be completed in November.
Directions: E15 — Helping or Hurting American Drivers?
At Issue: E15 fuel blends could be available by March or April of 2011, assuming the EPA makes two approvals for use of E15 in 2001 cars and newer models by the end of the year.
Independent Research Shows E15 Poses Minimal Risk to Older Vehicles
The conclusion of the Ricardo study is that the adoption of E15 as the blend limit for standard US pump grades of gasoline should not adversely affect vehicles manufactured between 1994 and 2000.
Austin Community College Offers Hybrid Training Classes for Technicians
Austin Community College in Austin, TX, recently received a $98,860 grant from the state to spend on alternative fuel training. The school is offering training classes on hybrids, as well as classes covering other “green” cars including ones powered by propane, natural gas and biodiesel.