From AAIA Capital Report
The recent survey undertaken by AAA has pointed to the strong
likelihood of consumer confusion, vehicle damage and voided warranties
as a result of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) approval of
the E15 blend of ethanol. AAA further called on regulators and the
industry to stop the sale of E15 until motorists are better protected.
“It is clear that millions of Americans are unfamiliar with E15, which
means there is a strong possibility that many motorists may improperly
fill up using this gasoline and damage their vehicle,” said Robert
Darbelnet, AAA president and CEO. “Bringing E15 to the market without
adequate safeguards does not responsibly meet the needs of consumers.”
BMW, Chrysler, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen have publicly stated that
their warranties will not cover fuel-related claims caused by the use of
E15. GM, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo have
also stated that the use of E15 does not meet the fuel requirements in
their owner’s manuals and may void warranty coverage.
While an oil industry study found conclusive damage to two popular
vehicle engines, the EPA and the Department of Energy tested
2001-and-newer vehicles and found no damage associated with the use of
E15. Other industry groups have filed lawsuits against the EPA approval
of E15. The use of E15 is strongly defended by the Renewable Fuels
Association.
Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) had previously introduced H.R. 3199,
which would require a comprehensive assessment of the scientific and
technical research on the implications of fuel with more than 10 percent
ethanol. The bill passed the House Committee on Science, Space and
Technology by a vote of 19-7. Sensenbrenner issued his own release on
Nov. 30 that stated, “I introduced legislation to do exactly what AAA
recommends. My legislation would require the EPA to task the National
Academies of Science with conducting an unbiased study of E15.”
The AAA release can be viewed here.