The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to announce a new approval for the use of corn-based ethanol in a variety of used car models.

According to The Associated Press, the EPA has reached a consensus on the approval of 15 percent ethanol fuel mixtures for use in used vehicles made between 2001 and 2006. Previously, only solutions that contained 10 percent ethanol were okayed for use in those vehicles.

Proponents of ethanol-based fuel argue that it is an attractive alternative to traditional gasoline, which would theoretically reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil. Many gas stations have begun offering ethanol-based fuels for use. Cars with engines that are designed to accept E85, also known as "flex fuel," have the option of using fuels with higher concentrations of ethanol.

However, the use of ethanol is not without its critics. As ethanol is derived mainly from corn, some in the agricultural industry argue that diverting the resources to fuel will drive up the cost of food. Ethanol is also not safe for use in smaller engines, such as those found on motorcycles, lawnmowers or boats.

Congress has previously stipulated that gasoline refiners must blend in a total of 36 billion gallons of biofuel into auto fuel by 2022, a goal that many believe is only achievable with the higher concentration blends.