What Is an Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV)?
An alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) is a vehicle that uses an alternative fuel instead of gasoline and diesel. The most common alternative fuels are electricity, propane, and natural gas.
AFVs are more environmentally-friendly than traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles because they emit fewer pollutants.
What Are the Benefits of Alternative Fuel Vehicles?
AFVs have many benefits over traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. They produce fewer emissions, which is better for the environment and public health.
Additionally, alternative fuels often cost less than gasoline, so driving an AFV can save you money at the pump.
What Are the Disadvantages of Alternative Fuel Vehicles?
While alternative fuel vehicles have many advantages, there are a few disadvantages to consider as well.
AFVs may have higher initial costs than traditional gasoline cars, although they often save money in the long run. Additionally, alternative fuel infrastructure (such as charging stations for electric vehicles) can be lacking in some areas.
How to Choose the Right Alternative Fuel Vehicle for You
Now that you know more about alternative fuel vehicles, you may be wondering if one is right for you.
The first step is to consider what alternative fuels are available in your area. If you live in a rural area, natural gas or propane may not be an option.
Once you've considered the alternative fuels available, think about your driving needs. If you have a long commute, an electric vehicle may not be the best choice since it would require frequent stops to charge the battery.
Consider your budget as well. Alternative fuel vehicles can range in price from a few thousand dollars to over $100,000.
If you're still not sure which alternative fuel vehicle is right for you, talk to a salesperson at a local dealership or visit the Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center to learn more.
Top 10 Alternative Fuels
Here are the top alternative fuels available on the market today:
- Electricity: Electric vehicles are powered by batteries that must be recharged periodically. Electric cars have a range of around 100 miles per charge.
This is a good option for people who have short commutes or live in urban areas where charging stations are readily available.
- Coal: Coal-powered vehicles are powered by, you guessed it, coal. Coal is burned to produce electricity, which powers an electric motor. Coal-powered vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per charge.
This is a good option for people who have long commutes or live in rural areas because coal is more readily available than electricity.
- Compressed Natural Gas: Compressed natural gas (CNG) is a clean-burning alternative to gasoline and diesel. CNG vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per tank.
This is a good option for people who live in areas with a lot of natural gas infrastructure, such as California.
- Compressed Air: Compressed air vehicles are powered by compressed air that is stored in tanks and used to power an electric motor. Compressed air vehicles have a range of around 100 miles per tank.
This is a good option for people who live in urban areas because compressed air is readily available.
- Biodiesel: Biodiesel is a clean-burning alternative to diesel. It is made from renewable resources like vegetable oil and animal fat. Biodiesel vehicles have a range of around 700 miles per tank.
This is a good option for people who live in rural areas because biodiesel can be made from locally-sourced materials.
- Ethanol: Ethanol is a clean-burning alternative to gasoline. It is made from renewable resources like corn and sugarcane. Ethanol vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per tank.
This is a good option for people who live in rural areas because ethanol can be made from locally-sourced materials.
- Hydrogen: Hydrogen-powered vehicles are powered by a fuel cell that converts hydrogen into electricity. Hydrogen vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per tank.
This is a good option for people who live in urban areas because hydrogen is readily available from factories and other sources.
- Liquefied Natural Gas: Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a clean-burning alternative to gasoline and diesel. LNG vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per tank.
This is also a good option for people who live in areas with a lot of natural gas infrastructure, such as California.
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas: Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a clean-burning alternative to gasoline and diesel. LPG vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per tank.
This is also a good option for people who live in rural areas because LPG can be made from locally-sourced materials.
- Liquid Nitrogen: Liquid nitrogen-powered vehicles are powered by liquid nitrogen stored in tanks and used to power an electric motor. Liquid nitrogen vehicles have a range of around 300 miles per tank.
This is a good option for people who live in urban areas because liquid nitrogen is readily available from factories and other sources.
The Bottom Line
Alternative fuel vehicle is an umbrella term that refers to any vehicle that runs on a fuel other than gasoline or diesel.
There are many different alternative fuels available on the market today, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
The best alternative fuel for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
FAQs
1. Why should I consider alternative fuel vehicles?
There are many reasons to consider alternative fuels, such as reducing your carbon footprint or saving money on fuel costs. Alternative fuel vehicles often have a smaller environmental impact than gasoline or diesel vehicles because they emit less pollution. Alternative fuels are often renewable and/or cleaner-burning than fossil fuels, which can help reduce your impact on the environment.
2. Is an alternative fuel vehicle more expensive?
The initial cost of alternative fuel vehicles can be higher than gasoline or diesel vehicles, but they often have lower operating and maintenance costs. Alternative fuels are often less expensive than gasoline or diesel, so you may save money on fuel costs over time.
3. Where can I get alternative fuel?
The availability of alternative fuels varies depending on the type of fuel and your location. Some alternative fuels, such as biodiesel and ethanol, can be made from locally-sourced materials. Others, such as hydrogen and liquid nitrogen, are readily available from factories and other sources. Check with your local government or alternative fuel supplier to see what options are available in your area.
4. Who can help me choose the right alternative fuel vehicle?
There are many different types of alternative fuel vehicles on the market, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs. Your local government or alternative fuel supplier can help you select the best alternative fuel vehicle for your needs. You can also find more information online from the Alternative Fuels Data Center of the U.S. Department of Energy's Office.
5. Is alternative fuel tax-exempt?
No. But the federal government and some state governments offer tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles. These incentives can help offset the initial cost of alternative fuel vehicles. Check with your local government to see if alternative fuel vehicles are eligible for tax breaks in your area.
