May 19, 2009 - Washington - President Obama’s historic announcement to raise the fuel efficiency of American cars is a critical step toward reduced foreign oil dependence and emissions from vehicles. It also dovetails well with the Obama Administration’s push to increase the use of renewable fuel alternatives.

Below is a statement from RFA President Bob Dinneen on the President’s announcement and what it means for the US ethanol industry.

“President Obama has rightly recognized that improving vehicle fuel economy is an important tool in reducing America's reliance on foreign oil. Together with the increasing use of renewable fuels like ethanol, these technologies represent the most immediate and effective solution available to help meet our energy and environmental challenges.

“In addition to evolving fuel technologies, new engine technologies are in development that will capitalize on the increased octane available from ethanol blended fuels, reduce any mileage difference that may exist, and increase engine performance and efficiency for future automobiles. Today's announcement on efficiency standards has little impact on the role of ethanol in the fuel marketplace.

“Raising fuel economy standards, allowing for ethanol blends in excess of 10 percent, and continuing to invest in next generation renewable fuel technologies are the kind of forward-looking policies that will begin to change America's foreign oil habit. President Obama's announcement today, together with his recently reaffirmed commitment to biofuels, are appropriate steps in that direction.”