Flex fuels are an option in energy conservation Published Feb. 18, 2011 By Tech. Sgt. Vann Miller 78 ABW/PA ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- To help Robins meet federal and Air Force energy mandates, "flex fuels" are increasingly being used in day-to-day operations here. In fact, the 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron has added more than 100 general-purpose flex fuel transports to the installation's fleet since fiscal year 2000. "By incorporating 85 percent ethanol into the fuel mixture, these vehicles help cut fossil fuel use," said Casey Hatten, vehicle fleet manager, 78 LRS. Flex fuel is derived from plants. Basically, it's non-drinkable grain alcohol which is produced by fermenting plant sugars. The technology is currently used in a variety of vehicles, and Robins is acquiring those transports which best help it meet its mission. "Current regulations mandate flex fuel vehicles meet mission requirements while being reputable, dependable, and easily available to purchase," Hatten explained. "Robins, in collaboration with the Air Force's vehicle procurement function, is always researching new ideas," she added. One of those ideas includes expanding the number of gas/electric hybrids here. Currently, there are two hybrids in the Robins inventory. They are used by the WR-ALC commander and executive director.