Prices at the pump exceeded the symbolic two-euro mark and motorists panicked. Refueling has become almost a luxury, and alternatives are springing up to save money. One of the big winners of this price spike? Bioethanol or E85.
Long shunned, bioethanol is becoming almost popular. More and more motorists are choosing to convert their vehicle to save money on their refueling and adopt a slightly more ecological solution.
How do I convert my vehicle?
The installation of the enclosure represents a cost, between 900 and 2,000 euros in garages, for installation, supply of equipment and change of registration documents. It is advisable to carry out this type of transformation on vehicles less than 15 years old.
There are bio ethanol kits. In addition, the gray card can in certain cases give access to financial aid.
The cost of the installation pays for itself on average after 20,000 kilometres, ie 2 to 3 euros in savings every 100 km. Namely that even if one decides to operate the transformation, it will always be possible to refuel with Unleaded on an occasional basis, this is even recommended.
Why is bioethanol or E85 cheaper?
Bioethanol or E85 is more economical, because it is less taxed by the State. It is displayed at the pump less than one euro per liter. The State wishes to encourage the use of this more ecological fuel. Its production comes from a process of distilling sugar beets and cereals.
Is it really a good alternative?
Less powerful, a car that runs on ethanol will therefore consume 15 to 20% more than a vehicle that runs on Unleaded. However, the operation remains interesting thanks to its very low cost for a motorist who makes daily trips.
On the ecological point, some studies have shown thate E85 emits 50% less CO2 and 90% less fine particles, compared to gasoline. However, the environmental impact of the production of its components such as beets remains very high…
Warning ! Bio ethanol is very corrosive. Inject in large quantities, it can accelerate the wear of certain parts. It is therefore to think about alternating with Unleaded.