April 9th, 2026

AB 2046, the Access to Affordable Gas Act, is advancing through the California Legislature. If signed into law, it would make California the last state in the nation to legalize EPA-approved E85 conversion kits. It’s a milestone years in the making, and one Pearson Fuels has been proud to champion. 

“AB 2046 represents a meaningful step toward expanding fuel choice and improving affordability for California drivers, said Doug Vind, managing member of Pearson Fuels. “We appreciate Asm. Ransom for introducing this bill and the legislators who are helping move it forward.”

What this means for California drivers

If passed, drivers of standard gasoline-powered vehicles would, for the first time, have a legal pathway to convert their vehicles into flex fuel vehicles capable of running on E85, gasoline or any combination of the two fuels.

E85 is a cleaner, more affordable fuel that has been widely available across the United States for years. Until now, most California motorists have been unable to legally access the cost-saving and environmental benefits of E85, unless they were driving an automaker designated flex fuel vehicle.

Under current regulations, any modification to a vehicle’s fuel system requires approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Because CARB has not approved E85 conversion kits, these products are not permitted for use — despite being federally approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

AB 2046 would change that. In a strong early signal of support, the bill passed its first committee with a 16–0 vote. Now, AB 2046 moves to the Assembly Appropriations Committee, the next step in the process before a full Assembly vote.

Authored by Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom, the legislation would exempt EPA-approved E85 conversion kits from CARB’s approval requirement. Drivers would be able to voluntarily install these kits and choose to fuel interchangeably with E85, gasoline or a combination of the two fuels. 

Lower fuel costs, real savings

E85 continues to offer a consistent price advantage compared to conventional gasoline.

Across California, E85 has typically been priced $1.50 to $2.00 per gallon less than gasoline. The price gap is even larger during gas spikes, due to refinery issues or supply challenges.

For many drivers, that translates into hundreds of dollars in annual savings.

Proven technology, already in use

E85 conversion kits are not new or experimental.

These systems are already in use across Europe and throughout the United States. The technology allows vehicles to automatically adjust fuel delivery based on ethanol content, enabling safe operation on higher ethanol blends like E85.

Installation is straightforward and typically completed in just a few hours by a trained technician. No major modifications. No need to replace your vehicle.

Infrastructure is already in place

California’s E85 network is ready.

More than 600 E85 stations operate statewide, including over 450 supported by Pearson Fuels. If AB 2046 passes, the E85 fueling network is expected to continue expanding — giving more drivers access to a lower-cost fuel option.

What’s next

If you already drive a flex fuel vehicle, you can start saving immediately.

Download the Pearson Fuels App to:

• Find nearby E85 stations
• Compare real-time fuel prices
• Access limited-time promotions

For drivers interested in conversion kits, additional information on approved products and installation options will become available as the market develops under the new law.

While this legislation does not solve every challenge facing California’s fuel market, it removes a long-standing barrier and opens the door for broader access to lower cost E85.