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Outagamie County WI | Thanks for reaching out and asking what we’re doing on flex fuel vehicles and ethanol policy.
On the vehicle side, we’ve been very engaged. When Ford began scaling back its flex fuel truck offerings, we worked directly with them — along with ethanol industry partners — to encourage continued production of FFVs, especially high-volume models like the F-150 that are widely used in rural communities. We made the case that flex fuel vehicles are a practical, immediately deployable solution that supports domestic energy production, lowers carbon intensity, and strengthens corn demand. Unfortunately, with EPA removing the regulatory incentives that once encouraged automakers to build FFVs, manufacturers are now heavily focused on electric vehicles to meet tailpipe emissions standards, making it difficult to sustain flex fuel options without policy changes.
On the policy front, we are actively working at both the federal and state levels to strengthen ethanol’s role in the marketplace. Federally, we continue to advocate for year-round E15 nationwide, strong and consistent Renewable Fuel Standard implementation, fair treatment under the 45Z clean fuel production credit, and policies to help level the playing field for renewable fuels.
At the state level, we are focused on expanding ethanol infrastructure positioning Wisconsin to compete in emerging low-carbon fuel markets. We continue to work closely with state agencies and legislative leaders to ensure ethanol remains part of Wisconsin’s long-term energy strategy.
Just as importantly, we are investing in consumer engagement. Through promotions around Unleaded 88, we are actively educating drivers about the cost savings, performance, and environmental benefits of higher ethanol blends. This year, we plan to increase our marketing efforts even further. We are expanding our outreach campaigns and investing more resources into consumer-facing education to drive demand at the pump. If we want ethanol production to grow, we have to ensure consumers are choosing it — and that requires consistent, visible, and strategic marketing.
The work that we do is protecting long-term market access for ethanol, growing production, and maintaining affordable renewable fuel options in a transportation sector that is rapidly evolving.
Attached is the letter to Ford, which has contact information.
Brenda Gudex
Edited by Beanseeder 2/20/2026 12:35
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Reply from Wisconsin Corn Growers Association regarding Flex Fuel vehicles
