Bio-Ethanol - What is it?

Ethanol is a the popular alcohol in every alcoholic drink and was associated with the birth of the motorcar, Fords Model T was designed to run on Ethanol before petrol/gasoline became the cheapest form of fuel. For obvious reasons we do not use 100% alcohol in vehicles, instead it is "denatured" with the addition of 15% petrol/gasoline, this mix also helps with cold-starting. The international designation E85 is derived with an "E" & 85 (%) from the key consituent - Ethanol. You should not confuse E85 with the octane measurement (popularly "95" in the UK) .

What is biological about ethanol?

Ethanol is a naturally occuring product of the fermentation of plant matter. This makes ethanol a renewable fuel (unlike fossil fuels) & a carbon neutral harvest. Popular ethanol crops are Sugar Beet, Sugar Cane, Grain & Corn. Ethanol can be produced by countries that do not have fossil fuel reserves (Brazil) and creates a healthy agriculture industry. The fermentation and distribution of ethanol can have carbon emitting consequences.

How is ethanol different to petrol/gasoline?

Litre for litre there is less energy in ethanol than in Petrol/Gasoline which means in practice that more is required in each charge of the combustion cycle. Ethanol running engines will consume 10-20% more fuel for the same distance travelled. On positive note the octane rating of ethanol is far higher , circa 106 compared to 95 for petrol/gasoline, this is reflected in more power that is possible from ethanol engines. The chemical formula of Ethanol includes Oxygen molecules that contribute to the "bang" on combustion. Motors adapted to run on Bio-Ethnol can be 20% more powerful. Bio-Ethanol has more combustion advantages, your engine runs cooler due to the evaporative effect, it is also smoother & cleaner. The fuel blend E85 is an ideal combination of the benefits of both fuels.

How much does it cost?

Ethanol (E85) pricing is related to existing fuel pricing, often attracts a tax advantage to encourage carbon reductions. In the UK it carries a Government subsidy & is priced a few pence below standard unleaded petrol.

MobiBike & ethanol

The motor has been modified to take ethanol but can be reverted to petrol use. You can expect 25 miles per tank or 150miles per gallon (UK) Exact mileage depends on throttle use, tyre type/pressures, rider weight and of course terrain ridden.

Where can I get it?
Morrison Supermarkets retail Bio-Ethanol E85