Automotive alternatives, competing

The key words to the future of methanol/gasoline blends for automotive use are need and availability. Technically, the operation of methanol/gasoline blends in automotive engines is feasible with some associated problems. Economically, methanol is not yet competitive with gasoline produced from petroleum, hence the need has not been strongly established. Since the need or market is not established, the capital expenses involved in producing methanol from coal or garbage are not presently justified. However, if 40-60% of the crude oil used in the U.S. to produce petroleum products should suddenly become unavailable, the need would be very real. The necessity of compete evaluation of methanol and other alternate fuels is evident. 

---