Author Archives: propel

A breath of fresh air: Propel launches Clean Mobility Center in Fullerton, CA

Posted on May 22, 2012 | Leave a comment

Last week, Propel Fuels hosted the grand opening of the first-of-its-kind Clean Mobility Center in Fullerton, CA. While America’s driving habits are evolving, gas stations have not substantially changed since the early 1900′s–until now. The innovative Clean Mobility Center redefines your average fueling experience with several key station features:

  • Renewable (Flex Fuel E85 and biodiesel) and conventional fuel choices
  • Carbon Offset options for fuel purchases
  • Free air for tires for better MPGs
  • Free self-serve air and tools for bikes
  • Recycling at the pump

For the grand opening event, Propel hosted some of California’s most illustrious clean energy leaders, including Mary Nichols, Chairman of the California Air Resources Board, and Commissioner Andrew McAllister from the California Energy Commission. Moreover, the event attracted representatives from the state and regional government as well as Fullerton Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Director, Theresa Harvey.  The Fullerton community welcomed Propel in grand style with an official ribbon cutting ceremony–we are grateful for such a warm welcome!

Check out pictures from the grand opening festivities:

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Posted in Biodiesel

“On the Green Road” Tops Off at Propel Berkeley

Posted on March 16, 2012 | Leave a comment

While Propel’s Homegrown Roadshow team of Emily and Emily were between events in the SF Bay Area, they paid a visit to our Berkeley Clean Fuel Point to meet up with Cece Reinhardt, one of the partners behind On the Green Road. Per the duo’s website (which is also a live blog of their adventures), the goal of On the Green Road is to “green an Airstream, turn a used diesel truck into a veggie oil machine and hit the road in complete ‘off the grid’ style.”

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Amazingly, Cece and her fellow road-tripper Brenda Daugherty have been living out this journey since the end of last year and have plans to canvas much of the US and even parts of Canada while “driving towards sustainability one mile at a time.” And while Cece didn’t have the Airstream in tow when Propel met up with her in Berkeley to donate a well-earned tank of B20 biodiesel, she did promise that we’d meet again. We hope so! Best of luck to these road warriors as they live out their green dreams in sweet Airstream style.

Learn about Cece and Brenda’s On the Green Road adventure at www.greenrvlife.com, and find out where the Homegrown Roadshow is headed next at propelfuels.com/roadshow.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Events, Propel Customers

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The Homegrown Roadshow is Coming to Town!

Posted on March 2, 2012 | Leave a comment

Yeehaw! This March, Propel is taking our show on the road, visiting seven of our CA fuel sites to bring Flex Fuel and Biodiesel drivers the chance to try clean burning, American-made fuels for free.

From the Bay Area  all the way down to San Diego, Propel’s Roadshow duo Emily and Emily will be cruising the West Coast, sharing their renewable fuel knowledge and offering new Propel customers at least $10 of free fuel along the way. The tour kicks off on Wednesday, March 7, in Elk Grove, CA (just outside of Sacramento) and concludes Friday, March 23 in Arcadia, CA (just outside of LA). For a full list of dates and locations, be sure to visit the Homegrown Roadshow online.

In addition to free fuel, Roadshow event attendees can also partake in special offers and giveaways from our convenience store partners. Own a business with fleet vehicles? We’ll have a dedicated fleet specialist on-hand at every event to discuss exclusive fleet savings and the many performance advantages of Flex Fuel and Biodiesel.

Can’t make it to an event? Starting next week, drivers can follow the Roadshow live on Facebook, and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for our official tour vehicle, Scout, passing through town. Every Scout or Roadshow picture posted to Facebook is a chance to win Propel swag and free fuel, so whether you see us live in person or you spy Scout zipping around your city, snap away!

See you on the Roadshow!

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Events, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Propel Biofuels

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UW Students to Retrofit Chevy Malibu to Run on Propel Biodiesel

Posted on February 27, 2012 | Leave a comment

The UW EcoCAR2 Team Receives $25,000 in seed money to kick-off the design of their plug-in hybrid, biodiesel Chevy Malibu.

As part of a program sponsored by the US Department of Energy, a team of students from the University of Washington is engineering a design will convert a conventional 2013 Chevy Malibu into a plug-in hybrid also capable of running on biodiesel.

According to Biodiesel Magazine, the program — titled EcoCAR2 — kicked off in mid-April 2011. Sixteen teams from across the country were selected to participate in the competition, which is co-sponsored by General Motors. According to UW’s EcoCar2 team leader Trevor Crain, the challenge requires that the Malibu (donated by GM) becomes not only a plug-in hybrid but successfully runs on biodiesel B20, E10, E85, hydrogen or grid-sourced electricity.

By choosing biodiesel, the team hopes to convey that diesel engines can be highly efficient and clean — and while Crain’s team of 50+ students would like to fill the car with a high-blend biodiesel, program regulations cap the blend at B20. Propel Fuels, which operates several biodiesel retail locations in the greater Seattle area, will provide the fuel.

Spanning three years total, the EcoCAR2 competition begins with a year-long design phase, after which the vehicle will be delivered for actual modification and conversion.

For more information on the project, visit Biodiesel Magazine, or visit the University of Washington’s project website at www.uwecocar2.com.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Propel Customers, Vehicles

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From Festive to Feedstock, San Franciscans “Treecycle”

Posted on January 13, 2012 | Leave a comment

Christmas trees are collected curbside in San Francisco. Credit: SFGate.com

In many American cities, nothing quite marks the end of the holiday season (or the beginning of the New Year) like gutters strewn with discarded Christmas trees.

But for the past 25 years, the city of San Francisco has been breathing new life into these signs of yester-yule with Recology’s “Treecycling” Program — an initiative that not only rescues Christmas castoffs from the local landfill but goes one step further by chipping the trees into valuable biomass, which can be used for things like renewable fuels.

According to Bob Besso, Recology’s waste reduction and recycling manager, who spoke with the Bay Citizen about the program, more than 500 tons of Christmas trees were collected in San Francisco in 2010.

Because of fir trees’ high acid content, they shouldn’t be mixed with regular compost, so turning the trees into wood chips is the preferred, if not perfect, alternative.

While the chipping process does result in air pollutants, it’s superior to allowing the trees to decompose, which would produce methane and 21 times the gases associated with chipping, according to Kevin Danaher, outreach and communication program manager with San Francisco Department of the Environment.

Perhaps the best solution for a city constantly on the cutting edge of eco-friendly practices? Renting fresh, if unconventional, Christmas trees that can be replanted following the holiday season through organizations such as Friends of the Urban Forest (the program was so popular, it sold out in 2011).

Still, fans of tradition and the environment can rest a little easier knowing that the fresh-cut variety can fuel more than the holiday spirit thanks to Treecycling efforts. To learn more about the program and to read the full story, vist The Bay Citizen online.

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Posted in Feedstocks

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Propel Fuels Partners with Econation Green Transportation Service in California

Posted on January 6, 2012 | 2 Comments

Just in time for the New Year, Propel is making new friends in the fleet world, including our latest fleet customer, Econation – a global ground transportation company that exclusively employs the use of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles in its fleets.

Econation driver Teddy fills his Suburban with Propel's Flex Fuel E85 in Arcadia, CA.

Econation will fuel its fleet of Flex Fuel vehicles at Propel locations in the greater Los Angeles area with renewable E85 fuel – a cost-effective blend of 85 percent high-performance, American-made ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. As a business member of Propel’s proprietary CleanDrive® program, Econation will also be able to track the environmental impact of every gallon of Propel fuel pumped, including pounds of CO2 reduced, barrels of oil displaced and more.

“Today more than ever, travelers appreciate being able to do something better for the environment while still experiencing the comfort, luxury and affordability they associate with a leading transportation company,” said Econation Managing Partner Ben Bloch. “We view this new partnership with Propel in the same light. We’re able to fuel our Flex Fuel vehicles with the sustainable, American product they were designed for without sacrificing quality, performance or cost. And Propel’s CleanDrive reporting program complements emissions data reports that we offer our clients. It’s a natural marriage.”

The CleanDrive system is an integrated carbon emission reduction tracking platform that tracks and displays the carbon emission reductions from the use of renewable fuels purchased at Propel stations. CleanDrive graphically displays the positive impacts of renewable fuel use including: reductions in CO2, barrels of oil displaced and reductions in foreign oil consumed. The system tracks fuel usage across Propel’s network of fueling stations, enabling businesses and government fleets to quantify the positive impacts of their decision to use low-carbon fuels, and in some cases meet mandated or voluntary fleet emission reduction goals. (You can have your own personal CleanDrive account, too! It’s free to register.)

“We’re proud to work with Econation who is setting high standards in green transportation and introducing sustainable fuels to an entirely new sector,” said Propel CEO Matt Horton. “Together with great fleets, individual drivers and better choices at the pump, we are making progress at reducing our dependency on imported oil and helping meet our nation’s emission reduction goals.”

So who exactly is Econation?

Econation is a global “green” alternative to traditional ground transportation (taxi’s, Town cars, limousines and buses). Offering an assortment of the most cutting edge hybrid and alternative fuel based sedans, utility vehicles and buses, Econation provides corporations and individuals with a way to be environmentally and socially conscious without sacrificing price, comfort, or dependable service. Econation was the first alternative fuel and hybrid firm to win Limousine, Charter and Tour (LCT) magazine’s 2011 Operator of the Year award, which measures chauffeured ground transportation firms on categories including innovation, safety and operational excellence.

To learn more about Propel Fuels, visit us online on from your mobile phone at propelfuels.com. More information on Econation is available at www.econation.com.

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Fleet News, Flex Fuel, Green Business, Propel Customers

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2012 VW Passat TDI ranks #1 for fuel economy over hybrids

Posted on November 18, 2011 | 2 Comments

Consumers don’t often consider full-size options when on the hunt for fuel efficient vehicles; however, there is a new class of roomy sedans boasting better fuel economy than previous generations. Motor Trend put three of these super efficient sedans in a head-to-head comparison to see which would come out on top in a miles-per-gallon competition.  The three vehicles compared include two hybrids, 2011 Hyundai Sonata and 2012 Toyota Camry, and one diesel, 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI. After comparing road test mileage, driving experience and design, the VW Passat won hands down.

While the article had positive things to say about both the Hyundai and the Toyota, the Passat took first place by a long shot. With a highway rating of 40 mpg, on one tank of fuel the Passat can cruise the interstate for 740 miles without needing a pitstop. Add in a six-speed manual transmission and that range shoots up to 43 miles per gallon and 796 miles per tank. Overall, Motor Trend concludes that the superior trunk space (no pesky batteries infringing on storage capacity), “the first-rate steering and taut, lively suspension deliver a rewarding, responsive drive that can’t be matched in this group.”

Read more from Motor Trend.

The best part about diesel vehicles? You can run clean, American made biodiesel without any conversion. Find a Propel biodiesel location near you.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, blog, Emissions, Green House Gases (GHG), Vehicles

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Major Commercial Airlines Launch Biofuels Flights

Posted on November 7, 2011 | Leave a comment

Two commercial airlines are taking biofuels to the skies, and with a bit of competition in the air, biofuels for aviation are becoming a reality.

Just this morning, United Airlines launched the first commercial US flight operated by biofuels. Powered by Solazyme Solajet fuel, flight 1403 (a Boeing 737-800 Eco Skies aircraft) departed from Bush International Airport in Texas en route to Chicago O’ Hare International Airport in Illinois. The Solajet fuel used was a blend of 60% biofuels and 40% conventional petroleum-derived jetfuels.

Meanwhile, in the Pacific Northwest, Alaska Airlines plans to launch its first regularly-scheduled route powered by biofuels this Wednesday, November 9. The carrier’s passenger flights from Seattle-to-Washtington, D.C. and Seattle-to-Portland will both be regularly fueled by a 20% used cooking oil-based biofuel blend from Dynamic Fuels. In total, Alaska (and its sister airline Horizon) will operate 75 biofueled flights over the next few weeks.

“This is a historic week for U.S. aviation. The 75 flights that Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air will fly over the next few weeks reflect our longstanding commitment to environmental responsibility and our belief that sustainable biofuels are key to aviation’s future,” Alaska Air Group Chairman and CEO Bill Ayer was reported as saying in an article from Biofuels Digest. “What we need is an adequate, affordable and sustainable supply. To the biofuels industry, we say: If you build it, we will buy it.”

To learn more about the future of biofuels in commercial aviation, read the full article at Biofuels Digest online.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Green Business, Technology

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Propel’s gone mobile!

Posted on November 3, 2011 | 1 Comment

We are happy to announce the launch of Propel Mobile. Visit propelfuels.com from your smart phone to get started.

The new Propel Fuels mobile site has everything you need to find and fill with Propel renewable fuels. In addition to the great features above, now you can:

  • Contact Customer Service with the touch of a button
  • Get the facts about our clean fuels
  • Add Propel to your home screen for quick, app-like access on the go
  • Easily access our main site for our full suite of online resources

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Posted in Biodiesel

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“Love, the Bus” Loves Biodiesel!

Posted on October 28, 2011 | Leave a comment

Here at Propel, we love a renewable-fueled tour bus. But what we love even more is a renewable-fueled tour bus that loves us back. Enter: Love, the Bus.

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Love, the Bus is a cross-country charity project incepted by Maine natives Tyler Dunham, Seth Brown and Corey McLean — a trio with a mission to bring their youthful energy and creativity to local organizations across the nation.

Said Kelsey Aroian of the Love Bus crew, “We’ve been touring the country on a huge ‘adventure for good,’ spreading a message of optimism and environmental sustainability. We’re proud to spread the good word about alternative fuels on our journey.”

Fueling their mission is the Love, the Bus bus, itself — a behemoth in green powered by none other than waste veggie oil (WVO) — and the occasional reserve of biodiesel, which is necessary to heat up the team’s WVO system. Propel was happy to host the bus at our Wilmington, CA, Clean Fuel Point when it rolled through Southern CA yesterday.

“We received our first batch of biodiesel in California from Propel Fuels and heard about their fantastic CleanDrive program.  We’re excited to join with them in their efforts toward cleaner fuels and a healthier planet!” said Kelsey.

Along their travels, the Love, the Bus team has been documenting their journey through daily video updates that viewers can interact with online. Every week, the group completes a new challenge to creatively fund local organizations near where that challenge is completed. All of their challenges, most of the money they distribute, and their general tour road map, is dictated by viewers and fans.

To play your part in the Love, the Bus project, and to view fresh episodes of Tyler, Corey and Seth’s travels, visit www.lovethebus.tv.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Green Business, Propel Customers

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New engines maximize ethanol’s power and MPGs

Posted on October 19, 2011 | 1 Comment

Most drivers like the power, price and renewable benefits of E85, but are looking for ways to increase MPGs. Engines designed with gasoline as the primary fuel are not maximizing ethanol’s potential, which can often lead to mileage penalties. However, new  technology from manufactures like Ricardo is geared toward running efficiently with ethanol’s higher octane rating.

In a recent interview with Fleet Owner magazine, Robert Kozak, president of Atlantic Biomass Conversions pointed out that, “Such engine designs tap into the positive ability of ethanol to resist early ignition, thus regaining much of the previous fuel economy loss,” Kozak explained. “Higher octane ethanol makes an internal combustion engine operate more efficiently – up in the 30% to even 40% range – while it’s also priced lower than gasoline, on the order of 10 to 15%, because of its lower Btu or energy content.”

The goal is to produce direct injection engines that perform equal to if not more efficiently than current gasoline engines. And this is what Ricardo engine product group has developed in their ethanol boosted direct injection platform.  According to Rod Beazley, director of Ricardo, Ethanol’s higher octane rating allows the fuel to withstand compression rates closer to that of diesel engines. The higher the compression rates the better an engine can translate energy into power.

These first steps toward boosting ethanol efficiency in heavy-duty engines opens the door for continued technology innovation and helps solidify ethanol as a desirable choice for drivers.

Read more from Fleet Owner.

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Posted in Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Energy Balance, Ethanol Research, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, News Links, Technology, Vehicles

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B20 Biodiesel Now Endorsed by 95% of Medium Duty Truck Market

Posted on October 13, 2011 | Leave a comment

B20 biodiesel blends are now approved by more than 95 percent of the medium duty truck market in the U.S., and by more than 60 percent of the U.S. diesel vehicle and equipment manufacturers as a whole.

At High Efficiency Truck Users Forum (HTUF) Conference in Baltimore this week the B20 approved 2012 Hino 195h diesel-electric hybrid truck made its debut.  Hino’s B20 approval statement joins Isuzu Commercial Trucks, Ford Motor Company, International / Navistar, Chevrolet, Cummins engines and others.

Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, announced its full approval for use of B20 biodiesel blends in its new hybrid-electric truck as well as its complete product line of class 4 and 5 cab over, and class 6 and 7 conventional trucks in July 2011.  Hino is the world’s third largest manufacturer of light and medium duty trucks, and now the fastest growing truck manufacturer in the U.S.

More about the High Efficiency Truck Users Forum (HTUF) Conference: http://www.htuf2011.org/
More about Hino Trucks: http://www.hino.com/

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Posted in Biodiesel

B20 Biodiesel powers land speed record

Posted on September 28, 2011 | 3 Comments

This is not your granddady’s diesel pickup truck. The Hajek Motor’s Ford F250 Super Duty powertrain truck recently broke the land speed record for diesel vehicles on the Bonneville Saltflats–then they filled ‘er up with Biodiesel B20, turned around, and broke the record again!

The previous speed record was set by a BMW motorcycle at 130 mph. The Hajek Ford F250 had slight modifications to upgrade the fuel injectors, fuel system, and turbocharge, but was otherwise mostly stock. Running petroleum diesel, the truck reach over 177 mph, but with biodiesel B20 they smashed the record, reaching speeds over 182 mph.

Depending on the feedstock, biodiesel delivers greater energy density than petroleum diesel. According to the National Biodiesel Board, the B20 used by Hajek was produced by a Missouri biodiesel plant and purchased and donated by the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council.

Read more from Autoblog.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Biodiesel Quality, Biodiesel Research, Driver Testimonials, Feedstocks, Green Business, News Links

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The new Propel Fuels website is here!

Posted on September 19, 2011 | Leave a comment

Drumroll please! After months (on our end) of anticipation, we’re excited to announce that PropelFuels.com is now easier to use and more community-driven than ever:


Informative content, enhanced navigation.
We know your time is valuable. With the new PropelFuels.com, you’ll also find quick access to dedicated sections for:

  • Vehicles: Millions of vehicles on the road today can run renewable fuels. Can yours?
  • Resources: Access third-party studies, fuel FAQs, the truth about biofuel myths and more
  • Fleet & Commercial: Find customer solutions, exclusive fleet savings and real user testimonials
  • Owners & Operators: All our questions abou bringing clean fuels to your station answered

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Posted in Biodiesel, Flex Fuel, Green Business, Media, Propel Biofuels, Technology

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Propel Partners with PC&F to Expand Renewable Fuel Access Across Western U.S.

Posted on August 26, 2011 | 2 Comments

Propel Fuels' Redwood City, CA, Clean Fuel Point

Last week, Propel Fuels announced a multi-year agreement with Pacific Convenience & Fuels (PC&F) to co-locate Clean Fuel Points (renewable fuel stations) with PC&F gas stations and convenience stores throughout the Western U.S.

The largest deal of its kind, the new agreement will provide renewable fuel choice to America’s most underserved market. According to Matt Horton, CEO of Propel Fuels:

“This first of its kind agreement allows us to quickly scale our business, opening the door to renewable fuel access across the Western U.S., America’s most underserved market for renewable fuels. And with U.S. automakers significantly increasing production of Flex Fuel and diesel vehicles, we will give customers true choice at the pump, making progress towards reducing our nation’s dependence on foreign oil and lowering carbon emissions.”

Propel and PC&F have identified more than 80 potential locations for Clean Fuel Points throughout PC&F’s network of 300 stations in California, Washington, Oregon and Colorado, which operate under various brands including Chevron, 76, Conoco and Circle K. Propel’s partnership with PC&F will provide consumers and fleets across the Western states with greater access to renewable fuels and enable both companies to accelerate expansion plans.

To expand public access to renewable fuels, Propel is working in coordination with the U.S. Department of Energy and the California Energy Commission on station development programs such as California’s Low Carbon Fuel Infrastructure Investment Initiative. As advanced biofuel production facilities break ground in California, Propel’s agreement with PC&F will provide the next phase of fueling locations crucial to meeting the goals of the Low Carbon Fuel Standard.

Learn more about Propel Fuels and PC&F online at www.propelfuels.com and www.pcandf.com, respectively.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, Propel Biofuels, Retail locations

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FREEDOM Film Tour Fueled by Ethanol

Posted on August 10, 2011 | 2 Comments

This month marks the start of the FREEDOM Film Tour - a nationwide tour of screenings for the new, renewable fuel-focused documentary FREEDOM. 

The latest labor of love from filmmakers Josh & Rebecca Tickell – the duo behind the 2008 award-winning documentary FUEL – FREEDOM takes place in the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Moved to action by the physical and emotional impact of the  spill, Josh and Rebecca take an international journey to investigate alternatives to fossil fuels.

As Patrick Robinson of the West Seattle Herald writes in the film’s first review:

“FREEDOM makes a completely compelling case that by converting our dependence on oil to a literally home grown source of energy we achieve several goals. First we improve our economy by spending energy dollars here, second we create more jobs, third we base our energy needs on a renewable resource (corn and biomass), fourth we reduce our impact on the environment.”

After kicking off in the Pacific Northwest, the tour will make its way - via the ethanol-fueled FREEDOM Bus – down the coast of California this week before heading through most major cities from Phoenix to Washington DC.

Propel is excited to join Josh, Rebecca and company in celebrating FREEDOM at its San Diego, CA, premiere tomorrow, August 12th, at the AMC Mission Valley theaters at 7pm. To join us at this screening, visit the San Diego premiere Facebook page.

For more information on FREEDOM, to view a full tour schedule or to buy the DVD, visit the FREEDOM Film online - and be sure to connect with fellow FREEDOM fans on Facebook.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Events, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Propel Biofuels

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71st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to Feature E85 Bike

Posted on August 5, 2011 | Leave a comment

We loved it when the now-infamous father-son team at Orange County Choppers rolled out America’s First Renewable Fuel Chopper in 2008 (pictured left). A true flex fuel bike, the Chopper ran on E85 and was custom-designed for the Iowa Farm Bureau to promote the use of domestically produced, renewable fuels.

Now, thanks to the 71st Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally at the Legendary Buffalo Chip campgrounds in South Dakota, a motorcycle fueled by American-made E85 will take the spotlight once again. Thanks to the Renewable Fuels Association’s continued sponsorship, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about using ethanol fuels for motorcycles; win renewable fuel merchandise; and have their photo snapped with the E85-powered bike (against a Buffalo Chip logo background, of course).

According to a quote from Buffalo Campground Sponsorship Director Lon Nordbye, as posted on DomesticFuel.com, “The Chip is excited to continue its partnership with the RFA and show our rally attendees that they can have a choice in fuel, no matter what their engine type is.”

For more information on this year’s event, visit the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally website. To learn more about ethanol fuels and the Renewable Fuels Association, visit www.ChooseEthanol.com.

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Posted in Events, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85

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Chevy to offer diesel Cruze in US

Posted on July 28, 2011 | 1 Comment

Tired of having limited options in diesel passenger cars? We’ve got great news from GM. Chevrolet announced plans to bring a diesel model of the popular Cruze compact to America in 2013. Diesel versions of the Cruze are already offered in Europe to great success. This will finally bring some competition to Volkswagen and other European vehicle manufacturers that offer diesel passenger options in the US.

The gasoline version of the Cruze is already a hot seller, touting an EPA-rated 42 miles per gallon on the highway. The diesel model will no doubt provide even higher fuel economy and allow drivers the option to fuel with biodiesel.

While the Cruze will be Chevy’s first diesel passenger vehicle, the automaker is famous for a variety of diesel pickup trucks, as well as a range of flexible fuel vehicles designed to run on American-made Flex Fuel E85. To see a list of Chevrolet Flex Fuel Vehicles, visit Propel’s Drive E85 page.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Emissions, Flex Fuel, Green Business, News Links, Vehicles

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US Biodiesel Industry Launches National Ad Campaign

Posted on July 11, 2011 | Leave a comment

Last month, the National Biodiesel Board announced that the US biodiesel industry would be launching its largest-ever public outreach effort in the form of a paid advertising campaign spanning television, radio, print media and the web.

“This is not some pipedream. Biodiesel today is fueling long-haul trucks from Florida to California, municipal buses in Texas, Ford pickups in Detroit and Volkswagens in New York City,” said National Biodiesel Board CEO Joe Jobe.

Here at Propel, we’re especially excited about the fun, 30-second biodiesel tv spot (above), which communicates the social and environmental benefits of “America’s Advanced Biofuel” and the ease of adoption “in your city.”

Help put this first-of-it’s-kind campaign to work by sharing this spot with your social network, and join the movement to renewable fuel by finding and filling with quality-certified biodiesel at a Propel Fuels location near you.

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Posted in Biodiesel

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Propel Celebrates July 4th with a Customer Photo Contest!

Posted on July 1, 2011 | 1 Comment

Happy Independence Day!

For Propel customers, every tank of Flex Fuel or Biodiesel is a personal declaration of independence from imported oil and freedom of choice.

This July 4th, we’re asking customers to show that independence by sharing photos from your holiday travels.

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So far, Propel customers have captured independence in action with snapshots showing their love for everything from road trips to fireworks displays — and, of course, renewable, American fuels. Photo entries are being posted to Propel’s Facebook page and submitted via email — and all entries are eligible for the grand prize $50 free fuel card!

It’s not too late to submit a photo for your chance to win the $50 Propel fuel card. Just show us where independence takes you, and send a photo of you, your family and friends enjoying the freedom of clean mobility with your flex fuel or diesel vehicles to independence@propelfuels.com by July 5th.

This July Fourth, enjoy your freedom of choice at the pump, and have a fun and safe weekend!

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Posted in Biodiesel

Wired Magazine Debunks Top Five Ethanol Myths

Posted on June 27, 2011 | 1 Comment

We couldn’t help but repost this succinct and well-written piece from Wired Magazine’s Forrest Jehlik — guest contributor extraordinaire and mechanical engineer for the US Department of Energy Argonne National Laboratory’s Transportation Technology R&D Center.

While there is no single super-solution to all the world’s energy needs, ethanol-based Flex Fuel E85 is a domestically produced, sustainable fuel that is readily compatible with millions of vehicles on the road today, no conversion or modification required. (See a list of current Flex Fuel vehicles here.)

As Jehlik writes, he’s spent a lot of time at Argonne researching ethanol (though an editor’s note clarifies that he remains energy-neutral). In the article, Jehlik quickly debunks the following five ethanol myths, with legitimate sources to boot:

>> READ THE FULL ARTICLE FROM WIRED.COM

Myth #1: Ethanol requires more energy to make than it yields.
Myth #2: Ethanol production reduces our food supply.
Myth #3: Ethanol crops and production emit more greenhouse gases than gasoline.
Myth #4: Ethanol requires too much water to produce.
Myth #5: Cars get lower gas mileage with ethanol.
(Currently, there is some truth to this last one, but modern engineering could significantly improve fuel economy and further increase a cents-per-mile advantage for ethanol.)

Jehlik’s piece is a reminder that ethanol is an alternative fuel that can be readily used to help relieve our dependence on petroleum today – and next generation ethanol fuels will only increase in sustainability and energy efficiency.

Be sure to check out Jehlik’s full write-up at Wired.com, or for more information on ethanol as a fuel, visit the Argonne National Laboratory Transportation Technology R&D Center and the Renewable Fuels Association online.

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Posted in Ethanol Research, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, News Links, Technology

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Michigan Sheriff’s Fleet Saves with E85

Posted on June 21, 2011 | Leave a comment

Low price at the pump combined with limited MPG-loss combine for significant savings.

Huron County Sheriff’s Office began an experiment last March that had the department testing blends of Ethanol from E50 to E85. The goal: saving the county money through its fleet of 12 flex-fuel vehicles.

Sheriff Kelly J. Hanson found that as long as ethanol prices are less per gallon than the price at the pump for unleaded fuel, it would result in a significant cost savings. “As it turns out, our patrol fleet, which is mainly Chevrolet Impala cars, averaged between 1.5 miles to 2 miles less per gallon on E85 as opposed to unleaded,” said Hanson.

The Department also experimented with E50 and found that there was just about a one mile per gallon difference.

“When we basically went and took a pencil to it, it was determined that as long as pricing patterns remained the same, E85 would be the better choice,” he said. “Obviously, we are going to have to continuously monitor price differences in order for the county to benefit.”

If the price difference (with unleaded fuel costing significantly more) remains the same between E85 and unleaded, Hanson said the department stands to save nearly $1,000 per 25,000 miles.

“When you take into consideration our office puts on more than 400,000 patrol miles in a year, our county could benefit from the use of ethanol,” he said.

But access to the fuel can be an issue. Because Bad Axe and Harbor Beach do not have ethanol stations, Hanson said those patrols vehicles that start out of Bad Axe and Harbor Beach will frequently be forced to use unleaded fuel.

“Our deputies are being encouraged to purchase ethanol if they are in the vicinity of an ethanol station and their vehicle could use fuel,” said Hanson. “It would be pointless to specifically drive several miles in order to just buy ethanol.”

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Energy Balance, Ethanol Research, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, News Links, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Now Available from Propel: B20 in Sacramento!

Posted on June 3, 2011 | 1 Comment


In response to customer interest in increasingly renewable fuels, Propel is proud to announce the arrival of B20 biodiesel in Northern California! Available of as June 1st at two of Propel’s Sacramento Clean Fuel Points, Propel’s B20 is blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% petro-diesel that provides increased performance, longer engine life and reduced emissions, all at no additional cost.

Most exciting, Propel’s B20 is safe for use in all diesel engines – and no conversion is required.

What’s more, Propel’s B20 biodiesel:

  • ...is 10x more lubricating than pure petroleum diesel and has a higher cetane rating for easier starting and increased engine efficiency.
  • ...has less ozone-forming potential than petroleum diesel and is proven to reduce toxic tailpipe emissions, including CO2 – a major contributor to climate change.
  • …meets ASTM specifications and can be safely run in diesel engines without any conversion or change in maintenance. In fact, a study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has shown that even the latest in clean diesel technology is compatible with B20 without impact to the engine or the emission control system.

"I can't wait to check it out!" said Propel customer Dave Parsons

Propel customer John Felts filling up his Mercedes CDI with B20

Follow in the footsteps of Propel’s inaugural B2o’ers (above) and try B20 for yourself at the following Northern CA locations, or visit Propel’s Station Locator for a full list of Clean Fuel Points and available fuel blends:

Roseville
999 Sunrise Ave (at Cirby Way at the 76 station)
Available Fuels: FlexFuel E85 | Biodiesel B20
Still looking for B5? Visit our Citrus Heights location

Sacramento – Folsom Blvd
8090 Folsom Blvd (at Power Inn Rd at the Shell station)
Available Fuels: FlexFuel E85 | Biodiesel B20
Still looking for B5? Visit our Florin Road location

Visit Propel Fuels to learn more about B20, and be sure to check out recent news coverage highlighting the Sacramento debut of Propel B20 from Domestic Fuel and the Sacramento Bee.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, blog, Driver Testimonials, Propel Customers, Retail locations

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Delivery giant moves to biodiesel

Posted on May 25, 2011 | 1 Comment

UPS is delivering a change for the better with the recent installation of a biodiesel fuel tank and fueling station at its most prominent hub: the Worldport facility in Louisville, KY.

The 30,000 gallon biodiesel tank and accompanying fuel dispenser will allow operators to fill the facility’s 200 vehicles and diesel-fueled equipment with varying blends of biodiesel from B5 to B20,which are compatible with any existing diesel engine.

Said Scott Wicker, UPS Chief Sustainability Officer, in an article on DomesticFuel.com:

“There is a finite amount of petroleum-based fuel available from our planet so it is important that UPS and other companies invest in ways to use alternative fuels and technologies, including biodiesel. This project helps us reduce our dependence on fossil fuels with the added benefit that it will also reduce air pollution and carbon emissions.”

UPS’s swap to biodiesel at Worldport was described as “monumental” by Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board. The massive facility, which is equivalent to 80 football fields in size, loads 100 planes per day and processes 416,000 packages per hour.

Learn more about the delivery giant’s switch to biodiesel at Domestic Fuel.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Green Business

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Propel Fuels Opens Station in Hometown of Redwood City, CA

Posted on May 18, 2011 | 3 Comments

Propel Fuels' Redwood City Location

Residents and passersthrough of CA’s Bay Area Peninsula have a new choice in fueling with the Grand Opening of Propel Fuels’ newest renewable fuel location in Redwood City, CA.

Home to Propel’s corporate headquarters, Redwood City’s strong sense of community, central location between San Francisco and San Jose and growing population of alternative fuel vehicles makes it an ideal partner for Propel’s Bay Area expansion.

“As a country, we face a lot of pretty serious challenges. And most of us as individuals can’t really impact those big problems,” said Propel CEO Matt Horton. “One of the most important of those is our nation’s dependence on petroleum. All you have to do is look at the price of gasoline to see how big of an impact that has on our country and our economy. One of the challenges for consumers is that it’s not really their fault because we’ve never really had choices at the pump, people haven’t been able to put anything in their vehicles other than petroleum. With this grand opening, we’re very excited to show consumers there is something we can do today to start to decrease our dependence on petroleum.”

Representatives from San Mateo County and the City of Redwood City brought out their own alternative fuel vehicles, include a City of Redwood City Flex Fuel police cruiser, to help celebrate the station opening.

One of Redwood City's own Flex Fuel police cruisers pulls up for the Inaugural Fill

Propel CEO Matt Horton thanks Redwood City Mayor Jeff Ira

“You can see as soon as you come into Redwood City that it’s something we strive for: to be very environmental, to be very green — and to have this station here is very, very exciting for us,” said Redwood City Mayor Jeff Ira. “Propel is a dynamic leader, and we’re really looking forward to having more stations, and certainly having more stations here in Redwood City as well.”

Added Karen Schkolnick of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, “When you consider that over 40% of air pollution and 50% of green house gases in this region come from the transportation sector, you begin to understand the huge health and global climate benefits can be derived from alternative fuels.” She continued, “That is why it is great to be here with Propel for the launch of this station, and hopefully many more in the Bay Area.”

As with all its CA stations, Propel’s Redwood City location offers both Flex Fuel E85 (an ethanol-based fuel compatible with all “Flex Fuel” vehicles) and Biodiesel (compatibile with all diesel vehicles).

To see more coverage from Tuesday’s event, be sure to visit Domestic Fuel online and The San Francisco Business Times, or visit Propel Fuels  to learn more about advantages, compatibility and availability of renewable fuels.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, News Links, Propel Biofuels, Retail locations

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Royal Wedding Aston Martin Runs E85

Posted on May 4, 2011 | Leave a comment

Needless to say, the Royal Wedding made headlines worldwide. Our favorite of the bunch? “Royal Wedding Car Runs on E85 Ethanol.”

While the rest of the world was wooed by the parade of headpieces, the famed Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen gown and the long-awaited nuptials, themselves, it was the newlyweds’ unique getaway in an E85 Aston Martin that had us smitten.

Owned by HRH The Prince of Wales, the Seychelles blue Aston Martin Volante DB6 MKII has been converted to run on 85% percent ethanol made from wine wastage. The car was converted in 2008 at the request of the The Prince, a renewable fuel enthusiast, but the short journey from Buckingham Palace to the royal residence of Clarence House on April 29th may be its most famous voyage to-date.

To get the full recap on the Royal Wedding and see more the Aston Martin, visit the official royal wedding website.

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Posted in Biodiesel

Car buyers get efficient. Diesel sales up 46% as gas climbs.

Posted on May 3, 2011 | 1 Comment

According to a recent report by Baum and Associates, diesels, hybrids and smaller vehicles are selling like hotcakes–sales have surpassed the rest of the auto industry’s overall growth for the first quarter of 2011.

2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI

The sales of diesel vehicles soared up by 46% compared to March of last year.  Gasoline prices are to blame according to Baum. As pump prices continue to climb, the superior fuel efficiency of diesel engines is attracting attention. And the best part about driving a diesel? Using clean, American-made biodiesel to power your ride. Learn more about running biodiesel.

Baum stresses: “The trends are clear: vehicle sales are strong, and consumers want hybrids, small cars and crossovers, and are shying away from pickups and SUVs.”

Source: Baum & Associates, Green Car Congress, Autoblog Green.

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Posted in Biodiesel, Green Business, Vehicles

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Ethanol Producer Magazine: Propel discusses fueling infrastructure’s role in reducing petroleum imports

Posted on April 21, 2011 | Leave a comment

Earlier this month. President Obama announced a a goal to reduce petroleum imports by one-third by 2025. As reported by Ethanol Producer Magazine, Propel Fuels discusses the role of fueling infrastructure in President Obama’s plan.

“The key to both fleet usage of the fuels and meeting President Obama’s goals is infrastructure,” Propel CEO Matt Horton is quoted as saying in the article. “We’ve got the vehicles today for high blend ethanol, we just need more incentive to build out the infrastructure and we’ll be there.”

To check out the full story, visit Ethanol Producer Magazine. Curious if you can help offset imported petroleum by filling with E85? Visit Propel’s Flex Fuel Vehicles page online, or find a Clean Fuel Point near you.

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VW to Offer Beetle TDI for 2012

Posted on April 18, 2011 | 3 Comments

If you’ve been following news regarding the new 2012 Beetle, you may have already heard rumor that the updated styling will echo that of the first generation “bug.” New to us, however, was learning that this retro-inspired ride will now be available with a 2.0L TDI engine – great news for Beetle bums, MPG mavens (VW is touting an estimated 40 mpg highway!) and biodiesel diehards alike.

Stylewise, the 2012 Beetle doesn’t disappoint. With a lower profile and a front windshield that’s been nudged back a bit, the Beetle does more closely resemble its 1949 predecessor, while a standard rear spolier, split-folding rear seat and slightly larger footprint offer modern day form and function.

As announced at the 2011 New York and Shanghai Auto Shows this week, the 2012  Beetle will be available in the US in September.

For more information, images and video, check out the full story at Insideline.com.

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Posted in Biodiesel

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Chevy Celebrates 100 Years, Auctions Off Special Edition Z06 to Benefit Pediatric Cancer

Posted on April 8, 2011 | Leave a comment

While the flex fuel Corvette may still be a thing of dreams for now (the exception being Jay Leno’s 600-horsepower flex fuel C6RS from a few years back), Chevy has found another way to improve upon the iconic sports car: a charity auction to benefit pediatric cancer.

In recognition of the auto manufacturer’s 100th anniversary, Chevy has designed a special edition of the Corvette Z06. While all 2012 Z06′s will feature limited-edition details — including 100th Anniversary badging, red brake calipers and an exclusive logo incorporating Louis Chevrolet on the B-pillars, center caps and steering wheel — only the 100th of those models will be up for auction at tomorrow’s Barrett-Jackson auction in Palm Springs. Proceeds from the sale of the 100th(squared) vehicle will go directly to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer.

To see more, tune in Saturday night to watch the SPEED Network’s live auction coverage, and keep your eyes peeled for lot number 654.1. Happy bidding!

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Posted in Biodiesel

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