Cost effective Ethanol is an environmentally-friendly, cost effective, renewable resource made from corn grown right here in Michigan. The state s 16,000 corn growers produce over 250 million bushels of corn annually. One bushel of corn produces 2.5 gallons of ethanol. Michigan corn producers are ready to grow the corn needed for an increased ethanol demand. Better vehicle performance Ethanol is an oxygenate enhancing the combustion of gasoline, resulting in an efficient burn and far less exhaust emissions than standard gasoline.
Ethanol is the only liquid transportation fuel that reduces green house gas emissions from cars.
In 2000, Michigan consumers used more than 70 million gallons of ethanol. That is more than double the 29 million gallons of ethanol used in 1999. This increased usage decreased demand on imported oil and gas by 98,000 barrels a day. One acre of corn produces enough ethanol to equal 10 barrels of oil. Higher octane 10 percent ethanol raises gasoline s octane level by three points, stopping engine-knock and pinging.