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Alternative and Advanced Vehicles

Technician Training for Alternative Fuels

Like conventional vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) require proper maintenance. That's why it is important to have trained technicians to properly maintain and service AFVs. Technicians must understand the differences between various fuels and fuel systems and have a good understanding of maintenance schedules and AFVs components.

Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) fully back the alternative fuel vehicles they produce with standard warranties, adequate parts inventory, and trained technicians. And training classes are available for mechanics wishing to enter the field. The following organizations offer technician training for alternative fuel vehicles.

Clean Vehicle Education Foundation (CVEF) 

CVEF manages a U.S. Department of Energy-underwritten program that increases awareness of compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinder inspection requirements and encourages natural gas vehicle owners to periodically have their tanks inspected. Go to the CVEF Web site to locate certified cylinder inspectors, learn about cylinder safety inspection training courses, and find out how to apply for scholarships.

BAF Technologies 

BAF Technologies integrates current and emerging AFV technologies and provides products and services for vehicle conversions. The company also offers complete product training for technicians, fleet managers, and vehicle operators. Courses include comprehensive system training, specific system training, and vehicle operator training. For more information, visit the BAF Web site.

National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium (NAFTC) 

NAFTC is a nationwide training organization that develops curricula and conducts more than 20 courses and workshops focusing on alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles. Thirty NAFTC national training centers are located throughout the United States. Visit the NAFTC Web site for more information.

National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF) 

NATEF evaluates technician training programs and providers against automotive industry standards and, if appropriate, recommends them for certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, commonly known as ASE. Visit the NATEF Web site for certified entry-level programs and certified in-service training providers.

Natural Gas Vehicle Institute (NGVI) 

NGVI offers natural gas vehicle education, in-house training, and public education forums, technical assistance, and awareness programs for government, utility companies, suppliers, and customers. For more information, visit the NGVI Web site.

Community College-Based Training 

Community colleges across the nation offer certificate programs in a variety of courses focused on AFV maintenance. Technology courses cover vehicles powered by ethanol, biodiesel, hydrogen, electricity, propane, and natural gas. Contact your local community college for full details about their offerings. Local Clean Cities coordinators can also identify local training facilities.