What is E15 gasoline? Experts explain benefits and drawbacks

MISHAWAKA, Ind. – The Biden Administration recently announced a new Executive Order that will allow the sales of E15 gasoline throughout the summer months.

This decision is in response to rising gas prices following the war in Ukraine, record inflation, and supply chain issues.

But, what is E15 gasoline? It's a mix of regular gasoline and a smaller amount of ethanol, which is a biofuel typically made from corn. But there are pros and cons to it.

E15 can safely be used in all cars made after 2001. The General Manager at Best One Mishawaka, Mike Burns said that’s 90 percent of cars on the roads. He also mentioned there is no notifiable difference between E10 gasoline and E15.

But not every station sells high ethanol gasoline. E15 gasoline is usually banned from sale from June 1 to September 15 because of concerns that it contributes to smog.

“The only difference between E10 and E15 is the E15 is a 10 to 15 percent blend of ethanol, the idea is to bring down the cost of gasoline and blend in some renewable products in the mix," Burns said. “Typically, the decrease in fuel economy negates the price saving of E15 or in gasoline.”

And while you will save some money, Burns said miles per gallon will be reduced by using E15 compared to E10 and regular gasoline.

The head of petroleum analysis at Gas Buddy, Patrick De Haan said generally an E15 gasoline option could save you five to 10 cents at the pump, but it may not be as efficient.