Green Gas and Groceries

The Kroger Co. (Cincinnati) is partnering with VeraSun to offer E85, a branded blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline, at 20 VE85 fueling locations at Ohio and Kentucky Kroger convenience stores. VeraSun now has more than 100 retail fueling stations in 11 states and the District of Columbia selling VE85 for flexible fuel vehicles.

“We recognize Kroger for its leadership in becoming the first national retailer to offer VE85,” said Bill Honnef, VeraSun senior vp, strategic initiatives. “This marks a significant step in E85 becoming a mainstream fuel option for FlexFuel Vehicle owners throughout our country.”

E85 is a clean-burning fuel with an octane rating of more than 100 and the highest oxygen content of any fuel on the market today. It was launched in May 2005 with seven stations in Sioux Falls, S.D., before expanding to Chicago, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

“The opportunity to offer VE85 at various Kroger locations is an important initiative in meeting our country's growing demand for renewable fuels,” said Geoffrey Covert, president of Kroger's Cincinnati/Dayton division. “As the number of flexible fuel vehicles continues to increase, partnering with VeraSun allows us to offer our customers convenient fueling options.”

In addition to Kroger, Enterprise Rent-A-Car is also designating four rental locations as VE85 FlexFuel branches.

“By harnessing the drive and commitment of world-class companies like Kroger, Enterprise and General Motors, we are making significant strides in expanding the availability VE85 and improving consumer education,” said Honnef.