RFA Showcases the World’s First Plug-In Hybrid Electric Flex Fuel Vehicle at the 2024 DC Auto Show

 The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is presenting the world's first Plug-in Hybrid Electric Flex Fuel Vehicle (PHEFFV) at the Washington, D.C. Auto Show this week. The vehicle, a converted 2022 Ford Escape, is a concept that combines the advantages of a flex fuel vehicle (FFV), capable of operating on up to 83% ethanol, and a battery electric vehicle (BEV). RFA has conducted various analyses, including tailpipe emissions, life cycle greenhouse gas assessment, overall cost of ownership, and convenience testing.

The PHEFFV serves as an innovative solution, showcasing a balanced and flexible approach to lower emissions. It demonstrates the potential of flex fuel vehicles fueled with low-carbon ethanol to enhance reliability while reducing emissions, offering a unique and mindful approach to sustainable transportation, as stated by Robert White, RFA Senior Vice President of Industry Relations and Market Development.

**Key Benefits of the PHEFFV:**

1. **Cost of Ownership:** PHEFFVs, combining flex fuel and plug-in hybrid technology, present a more economical choice than battery electric vehicles (BEVs). With a lower initial purchase price and affordable ethanol flex fuel, PHEFFVs offer a distinct cost advantage.

2. **Excellent Fuel Economy and Range:** The vehicle maintains an average fuel economy of 40 miles per gallon on regular gasoline (E10). With a full tank of E85 and a fully-charged electric battery, it provides a total range of nearly 440 miles, surpassing some BEVs.

3. **Lower Tailpipe Pollution:** Emissions testing shows a significant reduction in harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions when using E85 compared to regular gasoline. Additionally, tailpipe CO2 emissions are reduced.

4. **Lower Overall GHG Emissions:** Research indicates that all ethanol blends, including E85, provide significant greenhouse gas (GHG) savings compared to a BEV charged on a selective coal-only grid. The PHEFFV can achieve up to 38% lifecycle GHG emissions savings relative to ethanol-free gasoline.

5. **Convenience:** The PHEFFV allows the use of various fuel sources, providing easy access to existing refueling stations and flexibility in choosing fuels.

6. **Energy Security:** With concerns about raw material shortages for electric vehicle batteries, the PHEFFV can help alleviate supply chain constraints by offering a more efficient use of materials.

7. **Grid Protection:** The PHEFFV serves as an efficient "grid protector" by minimizing power grid strain through lower electricity consumption.

Recognizing the potential challenges in a complete shift to BEVs, the PHEFFV is designed to showcase the immediate and substantial benefits of flex fuel technology in complementing electrification. Evaluated by third-party organizations for life cycle analysis, emissions testing, and fuel economy, the PHEFFV stands as a forward-thinking transportation solution contributing to lower-emission vehicles.