Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles
More than a dozen alternative fuels are in production or under development for use in alternative fuel vehicles and advanced technology vehicles. Government and private-sector vehicle fleets are the primary users of these fuels and vehicles, but consumers are increasingly interested in them. Using alternative fuels and advanced vehicles instead of conventional fuels and vehicles helps the United States reduce petroleum use and vehicle emissions.
Biodiesel
Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that can be manufactured from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking grease for use in diesel vehicles.
Electricity
Electricity can be used to power plug-in electric vehicles, which are increasingly available. Hybrids use electricity to boost efficiency.
Ethanol
Ethanol is a widely used renewable fuel made from corn and other plant materials. It is blended with gasoline for use in vehicles.
Hydrogen
Hydrogen is a potentially emissions- free alternative fuel that can be produced from domestic resources for use in fuel cell vehicles.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is a domestically abundant gaseous fuel that can have significant fuel cost advantages over gasoline and diesel fuel.
Propane
Propane is a readily available gaseous fuel that has been widely used in vehicles throughout the world for decades.
Emerging Fuels
Several emerging fuels are considered alternative fuels under the Energy Policy Act and may be under development or already developed and available in the United States.
Tools
 | Vehicle Cost Calculator — Compare costs and greenhouse gas emissions | |
 | Light-Duty Vehicle Search — Find a hybrid or alternative fuel car or light-duty truck | |
| Heavy-Duty Vehicle Search — Find a hybrid or alternative fuel heavy-duty vehicle |
Vehicle Conversions
Conventional vehicles and engines can be modified to operate using a different fuel or power source.
Fuel Prices
Alternative fuel prices can fluctuate based on location, time of year, or political climate.
