Toyota eyes E85 cars in 2 years
Toyota Motor Thailand expects to start marketing its first E85-fuelled vehicles in the local market within two years. Eco-cars, as heavily promoted by the government, are supposed to meet strict fuel economy specifications, running for at least 20 kilometres on one litre. Vehicles using the blend of 85-per-cent ethanol and 15-per-cent gasoline would consume about 30 per cent more fuel but motorists would save money since ethanol feedstock, mainly molasses and tapioca, can be locally sourced. The investment needed to make E85 vehicles was also far less than for eco-cars since only certain engines and parts need to be adapted. E85 cars will be highly attractive if the price of E85 fuel is Bt15-Bt17 per litre cheaper than today's petrol.
|