More corn (fuel) allowed in gasoline tanks

msnbc.com
msnbc.com staff and news service reports
updated 10/13/2010 1:27:27 PM ET 2010-10-13T17:27:27


Up to 15 percent ethanol now OK; carmakers, gas stations opposed
WASHINGTON — Angering environmentalists but pleasing corn farmers, the Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday approved blending higher concentrations of ethanol into gasoline for newer vehicles.

Mixtures with up to 15 percent of the corn-based fuel at the pump are now allowed, up from the previous maximum of 10 percent for vehicles manufactured since 2007.

"Thorough testing has now shown that E15 does not harm emissions control equipment in newer cars and light trucks," EPA chief Lisa Jackson said in a statement. "Wherever sound science and the law support steps to allow more home-grown fuels in America’s vehicles, this administration takes those steps."

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