For the first time, drivers of cars and trucks that run on ethanol can fill up in the nation’s capital.
General Motors and VeraSun Energy have collaborated to make VE85 TM, VeraSun’s ethanol brand, available at the Georgetown Chevron on Wisconsin Avenue, which is owned by Mid-Atlantic Petroleum Properties.
It is the first in a series of locations that are opening in the District to provide VE85.
“Mid-Atlantic is proud to be the first retail chain in Washington D.C. to offer its customers E85 and, in particular, VeraSun’s branded E85, VE85(TM),” Mid-Atlantic Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Carlos Horcasitas said.
Over the past two years, the companies have worked together with retailers in places such as Sioux Falls, Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, and Pittsburgh to increase awareness of VE85. According to Carolyn Markey of General Motors, “VE85 is a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. It’s a renewable resource that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and provides one more source of fuel.”
Markey said the price can vary depending on the station where it is obtained. Today, VeraSun’s VE85 TM is available at more than 90 stations in eight states.
“For our nationto become more energy self-reliant, we have to start using transportation fuels other than imported oil,” said Sen. Jeff Bingaman, chairman of the Senate Energy Committee. “I appreciate VeraSun’s initiative in opening the first E85 retail fueling station in our nation’s capital, and I hope this venture will pave the way for greater use of biofuels throughout the Mid-Atlantic.”
