Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Alternative fuels are derrived from resources other than petroleum. Some are produced domestically, reducing our dependence on imported oil, and some are derived from renewable sources. Often, they produce less pollution than gasoline or diesel. To promote alternative fuels, the Federal government offers tax incentives to consumers purchasing qualifying alternative fuel vehicles.

1. Biodiesel is derived from vegetable oils and animal fats. It usually produces less air pollutants than petroleum-based diesel.


2. Natural gas is a fossil fuel that generates less air pollutants and greenhouse gases.


3. Propane, also called liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a domestically abundant fossil fuel that generates less harmful air pollutants and greenhouse gases.


4. Hydrogen can be produced domestically from fossil fuels (such as coal), nuclear power, or renewable resources, such as hydropower. Fuel cell vehicles powered by pure hydrogen emit no harmful air pollutants.


5. Ethanol is produced domestically from corn and other crops and produces less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional fuels.