A 2006 label indicating Australian-made vehicles suitable for ethanol-blended fuels

Ford, Toyota, Mitsubishi and Holden management will jointly decide on the wording and appearance of ethanol labels by December, ready for a roll-out on new vehicles in early 2006.

Australian Industry Minister, Ian Macfarlane would prefer labels being stuck close to the fuel outlet as a visual reassurance that the car manufacturer stands not only behind its cars but behind the use of ethanol blends. This, he says, will be a decisive step towards correcting public perceptions and rebuilding consumer confidence in ethanol.

SOME POINTS OF INTEREST:

1)in Brazil, consumers demand ethanol blends be retained because of perceived effects on air quality;
2)an ethanol industry could strengthen regional economies and provide additional employment as seen in rural USA. Each plant could create about 30 permanent new jobs and generate investment spending of around $80 million and operational spending of around $20 million per year.

FOR MORE INFO CONTACT: Kirsty Boazman – 02 62777 580 or 0412 171 444.