May 26th, 2026

A bill moving through the California Legislature would, for the first time, let drivers legally convert compatible gasoline-powered cars to run on E85. It’s called AB 2046 — also known as the Access to Affordable Gas Act.

What the bill does

Right now, only factory-built flex fuel vehicles can legally run on E85 in California. AB 2046 would open the door for drivers to install approved conversion technology that lets a compatible car run on E85, gasoline, or any mix of the two.

These systems are already allowed in the rest of the country. California is the only state that hasn’t put a legal pathway in place.

Why supporters say it matters

Fuel costs are still one of the biggest squeeze points for California drivers. E85 has been priced well below regular unleaded across most of the state — historically by $1.50 to $2.00 a gallon. Over a year, that adds up fast.

Right now, though, those savings go to people who already own a flex fuel vehicle. Supporters say AB 2046 would open that cheaper option up to more drivers without making them buy a different car to get it.

Where the bill stands now

AB 2046 has faced no opposition.. The California Assembly passed AB 2046 by a vote of 72-0 on May 21. and will now move to the Senate.

What changes at the pump

Even if AB 2046 passes, things wouldn’t change overnight. Drivers would still need approved conversion kits in a compatible car before they could use E85 legally.

The fueling network already exists, though. More than 600 E85 stations are operating across the state.

What drivers can do today

If you already own a flex fuel vehicle, you don’t have to wait on any of this. Those cars can fuel up on E85 across California today. A yellow gas cap or an “FFV” badge usually means yours is one of them.

The Pearson Fuels App will pull up nearby stations and show you real-time prices.

Drivers who don’t have a flex fuel vehicle will be the ones watching AB 2046 closely as it moves.

Want more on why supporters say California’s been slow to come around on conversion tech? Read our deeper take on how AB 2046 fits into the bigger picture on fuel affordability, infrastructure, and consumer choice in California.