Can cars run on moonshine?

Moonshine, in the context of illicit homemade whiskey, can potentially be used to power cars, but there are certain requirements that need to be met for it to be effective. The key factor is the alcohol content of the moonshine. To power a car, the moonshine needs to have an extremely high alcohol content, typically at least 150 proof (or 75 percent alcohol by volume). For best results, an even higher alcohol content of 190 proof is recommended.

The reason for such high alcohol content is that it ensures the moonshine has enough combustible material to generate the necessary energy for the car’s engine. Regular gasoline, for comparison, typically contains around 10 percent ethanol, which is a type of alcohol. Moonshine with a higher alcohol content provides a more concentrated source of fuel.

However, it is important to note that using moonshine as fuel for cars is illegal in many jurisdictions, as it involves using untaxed and unregulated alcohol. Additionally, there are safety concerns associated with using high-proof alcohol as a fuel, as it is highly flammable and can pose a fire hazard if not handled properly.

In some cases, individuals who live in remote areas or during times of prohibition have used moonshine as a substitute for traditional fuels. These individuals may modify their engines to run on high-proof alcohol, but such modifications are not common or recommended for modern vehicles.

It’s worth mentioning that while moonshine may have the potential to be used as a fuel, it is not an efficient or practical option for everyday use. Modern vehicles are designed to run on gasoline or diesel fuel, which have been extensively tested and optimized for performance and efficiency. Additionally, using moonshine as fuel can have negative effects on engine components, such as corroding fuel lines and injectors.