A new study offers hope for an increased use of corn-based ethanol in our vehicles. Most of the ethanol-blended gasoline being pumped in the state now is only 10% ethanol, but a the study finds, cars will run just fine on a blend up to 20%. Vehicles tested with so-called E-20 fuel showed a similar performance to those running on the ten-percent blend.

Earlier tests found more ethanol translated to more damage to engine parts, but this study said there was no unusual wear on the metal, plastic and rubber parts. The study, it should be noted, was paid for by the ethanol industry and the state of Minnesota.

A new law in Minnesota will require that all gas sold in the state be the 20% ethanol blend by the year 2013.