A Cheaper Fuel Alternative

High gas prices have many in eastern Oklahoma wishing there were other options at the pump. Well, it turns out there is a gas station just across the border in Kansas that offers one. You won't find

Monday, June 4th 2007, 9:49 pm

By: News On 6

High gas prices have many in eastern Oklahoma wishing there were other options at the pump. Well, it turns out there is a gas station just across the border in Kansas that offers one. You won't find E-85, the ethanol-based fuel, anywhere in the Tulsa area. The News On 6â€™s Chris Wright reports some people are traveling 80 miles north to get their hands on it.

After staring at gas prices that have remained above $3 a gallon for weeks now, the sign at BP in Coffeyville certainly catches your attention. In addition to unleaded, the station is offering E-85, for 50 cents cheaper.

"It's made in the United States,â€ said BP manager Imran Asgher. â€œIt's made with crops grown in the United States. It keeps your atmosphere clean, less pollution."

It's called E-85 because it is 85% ethanol, the fuel made from corn, and 15% gasoline. Supporters have billed it as a high octane, cleaner alternative. According to the National Ethanol Vehicle Coalition, Oklahoma is one of only a few states without a station that offers E-85.

For BP in Coffeyville, the decision to place it at their pumps was a business one.

When Imran took over management of the station back in January, all the pumps were diesel. But he wasn't making much money, so he switched to E-85 and says the risk has paid off.

"E-85 turned out really good for our store,â€ said Asgher. â€œWe have a lot of people coming out from Tulsa, from far away states just to get E-85."

Imran says besides Tulsa, people have made the trek from as far away as Kansas City and Lawrence to stock up on E-85. It may not be the perfect fuel though. Critics say it is less efficient than unleaded, a claim even some who use it agree with.

"I'm not sure how much cheaper it is because I did lose a few miles per gallon," said Coffeyville resident Megan Goodwin.

But with drivers desperate for alternatives, that's a sacrifice many might be willing to make.

"With all these prices, $3, $3.50 for a gallon, I think it's here to stay," Asgher said.

E-85 is not for everyone though. Many cars' engines are not compatible with the fuel.

To see a list of cars that are compatible with E-85, click here.

Watch the video: High Gas Prices Have Many Driving Out Of State For Other Options