Check out our Alternative Fuels Data Center for information, maps, and tools related to all types of advanced vehicles.
From electric cars and propane vehicles to natural gas-powered buses and trucks that run on biodiesel, today’s options for alternative fuel vehicles are vast. Increasing the use of alternative fuels and vehicles will help reduce consumers’ fuel costs, minimize pollution and increase the nation’s energy security.
Working with universities, private-sector companies and the National Labs, the Energy Department supports research and development of alternative fuels and vehicle technologies to provide consumers with cost-effective vehicle choices. Through the Clean Cities program, the Department helps local communities reduce their oil consumption by deploying alternative fuel vehicles and the infrastructure needed to fuel them.
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Just as there are a variety of technologies available in conventional vehicles, plug-in electric vehicles (also known as electric cars or EVs) have different capabilities that can accommodate different drivers’ needs. EVs’ major feature is that drivers can plug them in to charge from an off-board electric power source.
Test your alternative fuel vehicles knowledge with these little-known facts.
Algae shows great potential as a homegrown and renewable fuel source. Here's why it will be a big part of our nation’s energy mix sooner than you might expect.
The science and industry of biofuels is changing rapidly. See what’s new with the fuels of the future.
Plug-in electric vehicles (also known as electric cars or EVs) are connected, fun, and practical. They can reduce emissions, improve energy security, and even save you money. Because electric motors react quickly, EVs are very responsive and have very good torque. EVs are often more digitally connected than conventional vehicles, with many EV charging stations providing the option to control charging from a smartphone app.