Category Archives: At the Pump

“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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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 | 5 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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“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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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.”

Full Story

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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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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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“I believe in biodiesel because…”

Posted on April 1, 2011 | 1 Comment

Why do you believe in biodiesel? As this montage of video testimonials compiled by the National Biodiesel Board demonstrates, there are countless reasons to stand behind this renewable fuel. Biodiesel is clean. Sustainable. Green. American. It supports the domestic economy and creates green jobs. It’s the fuel the diesel engine was designed around. And according to biodiesel enthusiasts, the list goes on!

Do you believe in biodiesel? Let us know by sharing your comment, below — or, to learn more, including where you can find biodiesel near you, vist Propel Fuels or the National Biodiesel Board online.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Production, Propel Biofuels, Retail locations

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USDA visits Propel, highlights 10,000 pump plan

Posted on March 11, 2011 | Leave a comment

Judith Canales, Administrator for Rural Business and Cooperative Programs for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), stopped by Propel Fuels’ Oakland, California location to promote access to renewable fuel. Administrator Canales highlighted the beneficial economic and environmental impacts of American-produced biofuels.

Administrator Canales emphasized that a thriving domestic fuel industry will benefit the US economy. “The USDA is committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in rural America and we believe a strong renewable fuels industry, including convenient access to these fuels, is critical to this goal,” said Canales.

The USDA plans to increase access to domestically produced fuels by helping to fund the build out of 10,000 renewable fuel pumps across the country over the next five years. Retailers selected to receive USDA funds have yet to be determined.

“Propel shares the USDA’s vision for quickly increasing consumer access to renewable fuels in order to reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, boost local economies, and reduce emissions,” said Jim Iacoponi, Vice President of Operations of Propel. “Through a partnership between private investment and public funds, Propel will continue to build the critical link between California’s drivers and the next generation of fuels.”

More on Administrator Canales’ visit to Propel:

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Posted in At the Pump, Big Oil, Biodiesel, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, Retail locations

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From Biofuels Digest: The Faces of Biofuels

Posted on February 10, 2011 | Leave a comment

It starts with having a choice. As those who have chosen renewable fuels over petroleum, you are a crucial part of helping our country meet its economic and environmental goals. This week, the industry’s leading online journal, Biofuels Digest, has provided a fine microphone to share your voices with their first installment of the new series “The Faces of Biofuels.” With a little help from you, this piece featured a whole crew of consumers all happy to be filling their rides with clean, American-made Flex Fuel E85.

Read the full article and meet all of this week’s “Faces”!

Kai, a self-proclaimed "Ethanol Fuel Enthusiast," fills her standard Honda Civic with an E85/petroleum blend

American Patriot Trey fills up his Flex Fuel Ford F-150 at a Propel Clean Fuel Point in Rocklin, CA

CA's former Secretary of Technology, Trade and Commerce fuels up his Chevy Suburban with Flex Fuel E85 at Propel's Folsom location

Thanks to Biofuels Digest for capturing this enthusiasm — and to the growing community of clean fuel drivers everywhere: thank you for your commitment, your businesses and your voice. Every fill with renewable fuels encourages freedom from harmful emissions, petroleum usage and foreign oil dependency, so keep up the good work!

Do you, or does your business, fill with Propel’s clean E85 or biodiesel? Submit your story to Propel Fuels.

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Posted in At the Pump, blog, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Media, News Links, Propel Customers

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Propel Hosts First Stop of EcoTREK’s “Best of America Tour”

Posted on January 21, 2011 | 1 Comment

EcoTREK is driving 10,000 miles crosscountry in an American-made Flex Fuel vehicle, powered with cellulosic ethanol provided by POET — all with the goal of increasing awareness of the economic, environmental and national security benefits of domestically grown biofuels.

Tom Holm, Executive Director and intrepid driver for EcoTREK, made Propel’s Oakland Clean Fuel Point the tour’s first destination. Propel CEO, Matt Horton welcomed Tom to the station and shared his enthusiasm for EcoTREK’s goal. “Today we got a preview of ultra-low carbon fuels from non-food sources, representing the next level of sustainability for fuels that can run in our vehicles today. Propel, EcoTREK and POET each represent critical pieces to reducing our dependence on petroleum; widespread consumer access, advanced vehicle technologies, and the next generation of renewable fuels.”

POET’s cellulosic ethanol is produced from corn cobs and light stover (leaves, husks, some stalk) at a pilot pant in Scotland, South Dakota. Work is underway at Project LIBERTY, POET’s planned 25 million-gallon-per-year cellulosic ethanol plant, which will be built in Emmetsburg, Iowa.

Read more about EcoTREK’s Propel visit.

Follow Tom’s journey on the EcoTREK blog.

EcoTREK in Oakland

Music: Quiet Life hailing from Portland, OR. Check out their music.

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Posted in At the Pump, blog, Emissions, Ethanol Research, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, News Links, Next Generation Feedstock, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Propel announces Bay Area Network launch, 75 stations to come

Posted on September 3, 2010 | Leave a comment
During a grand opening event at the Bay Area’s newest renewable fuel station in Oakland, CA, Propel Fuels along with partners from the California Department of General Services, California Energy Commission, CALSTART & East Bay Clean Cities, formally launched Propel’s Bay Area operations, which will include more than 20 stations across the Bay, with up to 10 open by the year’s end.
The event also announced a $10.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and California Energy Commission (CEC) to build and operate 75 retail renewable fuel stations throughout California over the next two years.

From Left: Director Joel A. Ayala Governor’s Office of Economic Development. Matt Horton, CEO, Propel Fuels. Steve Sokolsky, represents both East Bay Clean Cities and CALSTART. Commissioner Anthony Eggert, California Energy Commission

The station development project, know as the Low Carbon Fuel Infrastructure Investment Initiative (LCFI3), has the potential to create more than 450 green jobs in California, while displacing 39 million gallons of petroleum and 187,500 tons of CO2 emissions per year.
Propel’s Oakland Clean Fuel Point is one of four new stations already pumping fuel in the Bay. Propel also has six locations open in Sacramento, CA–with more on the way!
For a list of locations and stations coming soon, visit Propel’s Station Locator.

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

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Run faster, cleaner? Use E85.

Posted on July 12, 2010 | Leave a comment

The old rules of racing are being challenged as cleaner and more efficient automotive fuels find their way to the track. Project Green, a group of researchers from the Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory has found that modern fuel-injected engines powered by E-85, outperform the same engine with a carburetor and leaded racing fuel. The cleaner burning fuel injection engines have been replacing carburetors since the 80s, except on the track.

“The testing disproves two widely and firmly held beliefs in the circle track racing community: that carbureted engines are inherently more powerful than engines equipped with a fuel injection system; and that E-85, which is less expensive than leaded racing fuel, is not well-suited as a fuel for race cars”, says Forrest Jehlik, principal mechanical engineer at Argonne’s Center for Transportation Technology.

Read more http://www.anl.gov/Media_Center/News/2010/news100707.html

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Posted in At the Pump, Big Oil, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Ethanol Research, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, Green House Gases (GHG), Nox

Volkswagen BlueMotion vehicles named 2010 World Green Car brand

Posted on July 9, 2010 | 1 Comment

“The definition of the World Green Car of the Year was expanded a bit today when the World Car of The Year organization named Volkswagen‘s BlueMotion product brand – including the Polo, Passat, and Golf models – as the 2010 World Green Car during the 2010 New York Auto Show. The 59-member jury’s statement declaring BlueMotion the winner took a swipe at hybrid technology when is said:

It is not necessary to add an electric motor and a heavy battery pack to achieve class-leading efficiency. Based on Volkswagen’s common-rail diesel engines, the BlueMotion models are among the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the market. In fact, the Passat BlueMotion can travel just about 1,000 miles on one tank of fuel in the European cycle. As far as internal combustion engines go today, these models are the ultimate you can get.

Even with these critical words, the organization did pick the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight as the Green Car of the Year runners-up. In other World COTY news, the VW Polo won the overall World Car of the Year title.”

Read more from Autoblog Green.

Find out where to fill up your diesel with cleaner burning biodiesel in California and Washington.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Green Business, News Links, Retail locations, Vehicles

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This 4th of July, Declare your Independence at the Pump

Posted on July 2, 2010 | 3 Comments

The Clean Air Choice Team, lead by the American Lung Association in North Dakota, encourages drivers to choose American-made fuel this Independence Day weekend.

E85 Flex Fuel is a new option at the pump for most drivers. The goal of the Clean Air Choice Team is to educate consumers about E85 fuel and its compatibility with flexible fuel vehicles.

Robert Moffitt, a spokesperson for the American Lung Association in North Dakota, said, “we calculate that if a single flex fuel vehicle is fueled with E85 instead of gasoline for a year, it prevents 4 tons of emissions from entering our air.”

The Clean Air Choice team has launch a North Dakota campaign encouraging drivers to fill tanks with E85 over the 4th of July weekend. Every trip to the pump is an opportunity to choose cleaner burning, domestically produced fuel.

Celebrate your freedom to choose what type of fuel to put in your car, truck or van. Find out if your vehicle can use Flex Fuel E85.

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Posted in At the Pump, Emissions, Ethanol Research, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, News Links, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Find E85, TomTom GPS App released

Posted on June 28, 2010 | 1 Comment

You’re on your summer road trip cross-country, tank gage edging toward empty, you need to find the nearest E85 pump asap — simple, use the TomTom GPS App to navigate toward the closest E85 location.

The application, released by the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), maps out the location of E85 fueling outlets all across the country. Flex Fuel Vehicles drivers can download the app to TomTom or Garmin GPS devises at www.ChooseEthanol.com.

Upon announcing the new app, Robert White, RFA Director of Market Development said, “We are continuing to explore new ways to connect the consumer with ethanol-blended fuels. TomTom and Garmin represent 67% of all GPS devices sold in the United States, and with our cooperation with the Department of Energy on station locations, this will continue to yield great results.”

To see a map of E85 stations across the US, visit the US Department of Energy’s interactive map.

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

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US Senator Patty Murray and Propel discuss economic impacts of biodiesel industry

Posted on June 16, 2010 | Leave a comment

Monday morning, Senator Patty Murray (D – WA) & Propel hosted a press conference to discuss support for the Biodiesel Blenders Tax Credit and its positive impacts on job growth, carbon emissions reduction and national security. Since the tax credit was left to expire in January, US biodiesel production has largely screeched to a halt. As a result, many producers including Imperium Renewables have looked to markets outside of the US to sell its fuel. The industry’s message was clear; renew the tax credit and our industry will immediately increase production, and create jobs.

The event was held at Propel Fuels Clean Fuel Point, the first renewable fuels station in downtown Seattle, Senator Murray was joined by the leaders of companies from up and down the biodiesel value chain (bioscience, refining, production and retail consumer access), who discussed the importance of the extension of the tax credit currently being debated in Congress.

Speakers included Matt Horton, CEO of Propel Fuels, Todd Ellis, VP of Business Development for Imperium Renewables, Dr. Margaret McCormick, COO for Targeted Growth, and Cameron Hewes, President and CEO of General Biodiesel.

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Posted in At the Pump, Big Oil, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Production, Biodiesel Quality, Biodiesel Research, blog, Climate Change, Cold Weather Biodiesel, Emissions, Feedstocks, Green Business, Green House Gases (GHG), Introduction, Media, Next Generation Feedstock, Nox, Particulates, Politics, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

Biodiesel Bulletin: Biodiesel delivers sweet treats

Posted on May 14, 2010 | 2 Comments

Propel customer, Essential Baking Company, is highlighted in the latest edition of the National Biodiesel Board’s monthly bulletin.


“The Web site for The Essential Baking Company in Seattle says it all: “We’re fussy. Fussy about taste, the texture of our bread, the flakiness of our pastry, the richness of our desserts, and preserving the time-honored techniques of baking. And don’t even get us started about the importance of the pureness of what we put into our bodies or our impact on the environment.”

That commitment to the environment is fulfilled in part by using 99 percent biodiesel . . .” Read more from the National Biodiesel board.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Production, Biodiesel Quality, Biodiesel Research, blog, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Green Business, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Changing how America fuels, one tank at a time

Posted on April 9, 2010 | Leave a comment

In January, American drivers displaced 784,000 barrels of foreign oil every day by using American-made ethanol fuel, the most renewable fuel ever used in America’s history. A big thanks to all Propel customers who contributed by choosing to fill their vehicles with renewable, homegrown Flex Fuel E85.

Together, we can change what we put in our tanks, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and support domestically-produced, cleaner burning fuel.

Read more from Domestic Fuel.

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations

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Propel’s 85 cent E85 event a great success

Posted on March 1, 2010 | Leave a comment

Last Wednesday’s event brought drivers across Sacramento to Propel stations to fill with E85 Flex Fuel for $0.85/gallon. New and returning customers were happy to brave the morning’s stormy weather to fill their tanks with low-carbon, domestically produced E85.

Drivers across the region joined together to reduce approximately 30,000 lbs of CO2 and save over $10,000 at the pump–in just one day!

Propel team members enjoyed meeting new customers at the pumps on Wednesday, as well as catching up with many loyal Propel users. We appreciate all your comments and suggestions on ways to improve customer experience at the pumps.

See more pictures from the event on our Facebook page.

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Green Business, Green House Gases (GHG), Pricing, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Propel offers 85 cent E85 on Feb. 24th

Posted on February 23, 2010 | Leave a comment

On Wednesday, February 24th, Propel will offer E85 Ethanol for $.85/gallon at all Sacramento locations. The goal of the program, in partnership with CALSTART, is to help inform the 25,000 Flex Fuel drivers in Sacramento of the economic savings and environmental benefits of fueling with domestically produced, low carbon fuel. Join us at the pump on Wednesday from 9 am to 6 pm!

Promotion Details

Where: All Propel Sacramento area locations – see map
When: Wednesday, February 24, 9 am – 6 pm
More Info: Email info@propelfuels.com or call 1.800.871.0773

Not sure if you have a Flex Fuel Vehicle?

E85 capable Flex Fuel vehicles can be identified by the manufacturer’s vehicle badge, yellow gas cap, or by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) online. Find out if your vehicle is E85 compatible by checking online at www.propelfuels.com/driveE85.

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Posted in At the Pump, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel E85, Pricing, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations

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Study finds E85 increases efficiency offsetting MPG loss

Posted on October 13, 2009 | 1 Comment

PropelCD5_E85_pumpA study released by the University of Nebraska found that E85 delivers more efficiency over higher petroleum fuel blends, offsetting much of the loss in Miles Per Gallon (MPG) typically attributed to E85. The study illustrates that when calculating fuel MPG performance, both the energy density of the fuel (BTUs), and the energy efficiency must be accounted for.

The report tested light, medium and heavy vehicles showing E85 improved energy conversion by 13, 9 and 14 percent respectively when compared to higher petroleum blends. This increased efficiency translates into an MPG decrease of only 14 to 19 percent depending on vehicle size using E85, showing that energy density and efficiency of fuel both factor into overall MPG performance.

This difference in MPG is compensated by the lower price of E85 blends at the pump that are on average 20-30% less than regular unleaded. In fact, Propel E85 is nearly 60 cents cheaper than regular gasoline, making E85 the ecomomic choice.

Find the station nearest you.

Read the University of Nebraska study.

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Energy Balance, Flex Fuel, Pricing, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Green jobs for conservation corps youth

Posted on October 7, 2009 | Leave a comment

conserv_corps_propel

Propel has teamed up with Sacramento Regional Conservation Corps to provide life and skills training for at-risk young men and women at Propel’s retail fueling locations.

“Our partnership with SRCC allows us to not only help young people develop important skills that will assist them the rest of their lives, but creates a skilled workforce for the growing renewable fuels industry.” said Rob Elam, Propel’s President and Co‐Founder. “We look forward to expanding this important program on a larger scale as our network of alternative fueling stations grows.”

Involvement in the program provides corps members training in critical skills such as job responsibility, timeliness and teamwork, while exposing them to the promising industry of renewable energy.

“The opportunities that Propel has provided for the young people in our program are invaluable and offer them a positive environment in which they can channel their energy,” said Andi Liebenbaum, Deputy Director of the Sacramento Regional Conservation Corps. “The exposure our corpsmembers are receiving to the renewable fuels industry can only help them in a future job market.”

Read more about the SRCC and Propel partnership.

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

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US Postal Service Earns Top Environmental Award

Posted on October 2, 2009 | 1 Comment
USPS Fills at Propel's Citrus Heights, CA location

USPS Fills at Propel's Citrus Heights, CA location

The U.S. Postal Services was awarded the Environmental Achievement of the Year by Postal Technology International magazine. In addition to recycling and energy-efficiency efforts, the Postal Service recently announced plans to replace 6,500 vehicles with 1,000 E85 ethanol-capable and 900 gasoline/electric hybrid vehicles.

In the Sacramento region, the USPS is a loyal customer of Propel clean, American Flex Fuel and biodiesel.

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

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At the Pump . . .

Posted on September 4, 2009 | Leave a comment

Propel community members share their stories.

Rocklin, CA – Rocklin Clean Fuel Point – Thursday, September 3rd.

Martha_Rocklin

Martha has been filling her Ford Explorer with Flex Fuel for the last three months and loves it–especially the price, nearly 70 cents cheaper than regular gasoline.

Her husband noticed that they could use Flex Fuel E85 from a label posted on the inside of the gas tank door.

She lives in Penn Valley, CA, but works conveniently close to Propel’s Rocklin location–though she’d like to see a station in Grass Valley area sometime soon. She and her husband are big proponents of E85 and spread the word to friends and family.

Can your vehicle run Flex Fuel E85? Find out.

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Flex Fuel, Pricing, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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Cut the Cardboard When Making a Move

Posted on August 21, 2009 | Leave a comment

Customer Profile: FROGBOX

Jeff_FrogBox

Propel customer FROGBOX is changing the way Seattle moves. In city that uses about 1 million cardboard boxes per month for moving purposes alone, FROGBOX offers a low impact alternative.  It makes sense they use alternative fuels (Yes, that’s Propel’s South Lake Union Station in the background). FROGBOX supplies Seattle with eco-friendly, reusable moving boxes that makes a move easier on you and the environment.

 
“There’s a widely-held false perception that since it’s cardboard, it will just be recycled and used again, but cardboard and paper products take up 40 percent of our state’s landfills, and OCC (old corrugated cardboard) is one of the most commonly found items in industrial and residential waste streams,” said Jeff Hill of FROGBOX.

 
So how do you lose the cardboard when preparing for a move?
1. Call FROGBOX at 1-877-FROGBOX or visit www.frogbox.com
2. FROGBOX delivers the eco-friendly moving totes and containers
3. You pack and move
4. They pick up the containers when you’re done

 
Easy enough! We’d like to thank FROGBOX for using clean, alternative fuels – and for making a move a whole lot easier.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Biodiesel Quality, Biodiesel Research, blog, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Green Business, Introduction, News Links, Personal Carbon Credits, Politics

Take our survey, enter to win $300 of FREE FUEL

Posted on August 18, 2009 | Leave a comment

Propel has teamed up with students from Sacramento State for a summer internship program. Students are conducting short customer surveys at all Propel Sacramento locations– Monday, August 17th through Sunday, August 23rd.

PropelSurvey

Stop by any Propel Sacramento location, take our survey and register to win $300 of FREE fuel. And chat with our friendly interns, they’re doing a great job!

For a map of Propel California locations, visit our station locator.

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Driver Testimonials, Emissions, Flex Fuel, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations

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At the Pump . . .

Posted on August 11, 2009 | Leave a comment

Propel community members share their stories.

Sacramento, CA – Folsom Blvd Clean Fuel Point – Monday, August 10

Fred_folsom

Met Fred filling up his Flex Fuel Chevy Tahoe at Propel’s Folsom Blvd location in Sacramento–it’s conveniently close to home for Fred and he likes to save money at the pump.

Right now, Propel’s Flex Fuel E85 is nearly 70 cents cheaper than regular gasoline!

Fred looks forward to Propel stations in the Bay Area and in Fresno.

You can sign up for new station announcements or request a station in your area on Propel’s website.

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Posted in At the Pump, Driver Testimonials, Flex Fuel, Pricing, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations, Vehicles

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King 5 News fleet fills up in Downtown Seattle

Posted on August 7, 2009 | Leave a comment

King5_fill_slu King 5 regularly fills up their fleet vehicles at Propel’s Downtown Seattle biodiesel station. The satellite truck fills at the high flow dispenser–it pumps 30 gallons per minute!

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Posted in At the Pump, Biodiesel, Driver Testimonials, Green Business, Propel Biofuels, Propel Customers, Retail locations

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