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Seeking relief from high gas prices? There's a new gas station offering fuel for under $3.00 per gallon. But, is it really worth it in the long run?
It's for the alternative fuel E-85, the ethanol-based fuel made mostly from corn. Its logo has a bunch of clouds in a drop of water. Eco-friendly, feel-good fuel. And, the icing on the cake is the price so beautiful you'll start drooling.
There are few places in the Tulsa area you can find it -- one is in Glenpool, where it's 34 cents cheaper than regular unleaded. In Owasso, it's 75 cents cheaper. The price of E-85 at the new Kum & Go station located at 86th and 145th East Avenue in Owasso is just $2.64.
But, while the price is truly seductive, you need to do some math to make sure it's worth it for your wallet.
"From what I understand, you lose a couple of miles per gallon using it," says Chenana Wollenberg. "But, with it being $2.64 and regular gas being $3.39 and probably getting higher soon, it's definitely worth it."
Definitely? Not according to Uncle Sam. One visit to the Department of Energy's website pulls up a flex-fuel cost calculator, revealing the true impact of those lost couple of miles. E-85 for an F-150? Fork over an additional 126 dollars a year, even at $2.64 per gallon. In Glenpool, using E-85 for your Grand Marquis will end up costing you $2,858 more than regular gas.
"All I know is it's cheaper."
Marketing at its finest -- irresistible price, thumbs up for the environment and please, pay no attention to your bank account at the end of the year.
According to the federal government, E-85 produces 27-percent less energy than an equivalent gallon of gas, hence the need for so much more to go the same distance, costing you more, even though it appears cheaper.
On The Net:
Department of Energy Flexible Fuel Cost Calculator
FuelEconomy.gov
National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition
E85Vehicles.com
E85Prices.com
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