Ethanol in our fuel, have your say!

[Bob In Ct]

So here's what we know -
Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) can be added to gasoline with no negative effects.
Ethanol has a higher octane value than gasoline, but that advantage can only be realized by increasing compression (a'la Indycar) or possibly timing (the hard way).
While ethanol has a higher octane rating than does gasoline it burns at a lower temperature. This results in less power being generated unless compression is increased.
There is no net gain achieved by adding ethanol to gasoline since there is an energy outlay in producing the ethanol. Farmers in Kansas and Iowa would disagree.

This whole debate reminds me of the gas/diesel debate. While we know diesel engines typically get 10% to 20% better mileage, we have to keep in mind the diesel fuel (at least in Connecticut) costs 20% more. So why put up with all the problems associated with diesel engines?

Bob