U.S. Energy Information Administration logo
Skip to sub-navigation

Press Room

Press Releases

More press releases...

Presentations

EIA’s Role in Supporting the Nation’s Energy Dialogue pdf
Subject:EIA’s Role in Supporting the Nation’s Energy Dialogue
Presented by:Angelina LaRose
Presented to: United States Association for Energy Economics (USAEE)
Virtual—March 4, 2026

More presentations...

Media and Public Information Resources

Stay Connected

April 15, 2026 Today in Energy ›

What’s in your gasoline? Understanding U.S. motor gasoline formulations ›

Motor gasoline in the United States is a blend of hydrocarbons and chemicals, with specific formulas varying by region and season. To meet federal air quality standards, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state regulators require different formulations, depending on air quality and location, which affect performance, cost, and emissions. In addition, warmer summer months require a different gasoline formulation than cooler winter months. Key differences between formulations include octane rating, volatility—commonly measured as Reid vapor pressure (RVP)—and emissions. This year, the EPA will relax federal enforcement of summer RVP standards to help reduce gasoline prices. More

map of reid vapor pressure specifications for summer-grade gasoline by region

Data source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency


Resources

Basics & Background