EGP's Electric Cobra

ELECTRIC GRAND PRIX CORP.

364 Lanning Road, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472-9741

Tel./Fax.  585-624-8182

GRCC Ethanol Outreach Event

"E-85 Technical Workshop"

On 8 APR 2008 Genesee Region Clean Communities hosted an educational event covering E-85 ethanol fuel (85% ethanol blended with 15% gasoline).  The event took place at the Rochester Institute of Technology's Inn and Conference Center.  The event was sponsored by Clean Fuel Distribution, Dresser Wayne and General Motors.

MEETING NOTES:

"The Importance of Ethanol for Economic Development in Upstate New York" by Mike Conners II, Albany County Comptroller.  Mike stated that 80% of the fuel consumed within New York State is imported.  Ethanol production and consumption will be of benefit to NYS farmers, ethanol producers and distributors and the environment.

Luke May, GM, stated that there are currently three million flexible fuel GM vehicles (FFV) on the road today that can run on E-85 but they are not THE ANSWER to energy problems but ARE ONE OF THE ANSWERS.  GM plans 16 more hybrid model vehicles in the next four years.  FFVs will account for 50% of GM production within the next four years.

Scott Negley, Dresser Wayne (provider of E-85 dispensing equipment) spoke about the equipment that his organization provides and addressed the problem with erroneously refueling problems such as putting E-85 into a vehicle that is not designed to use this fuel.  Proper signage is important but research indicates that 80% of dispensing of improper fuel is attributable to the lower price for E-85 as compared to gasoline and is, therefore,  intentional. 

Steve Richardson, Clean Fuel Distributors, addressed potential solutions for the problem facing fuel sales agencies when making a decision whether to install alternate refueling facilities.  The agency will work with potential clients to determine the best economic and practical approach to be followed.

Linda Hardie, New York State Research and Development Authority, provided information about a pending Program Opportunity Notice that will be made available to NYS businesses that apply for financial support building refueling infrastructure for alternative fuels.

Courtney Bozic, Clean Fuels Consulting, provided information about practical considerations, for small stores with refueling sites, relating to developing E-85 refueling capability.  There is a store owner's guide to lE-85.  She also noted that the Steel Tank Institute has found that steel tanks show no significant deterioration over time when filled with E-85. 

Fred Thomas, Worley & Obetz, stated that it is not uncommon for small convenience stores to sell more E-85 than premium grade gasoline.

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