altfuelsys

With the increasing popularity of alternative fuels, it might be a prudent time to take a look at three types of vehicles that utilize alternate resources for power.HYBRID VEHICLES (HEVS) are designed to combine the best of the gasoline engine and electric motors. Additionally, they can be configured in a number of ways to attain different objectives whether it be improved fuel economy or increased power.DIESEL VEHICLES are making a comeback since they are more powerful and fuel efficient than their earlier relatives (an average of 35 more fuel efficient). Improved fuel injection technology lends to increased power and efficiency as well as improved acceleration. Plus, engines using biodiesel must meet the same emissions standards as their gasoline counterparts.FLEX-FUEL VEHICLES (FFVS) are designed to run on a blend of gasoline and up to 85 ethanol (E85), and except for a few fuel system modifications they are identical to their gasoline counterparts. FFVs have been in production since the 1980′s and there are a wide range of models available. Chances are you pass several every day without even knowing it since they look exactly like their gasoline-only counterparts.

As the demand for alternative fuel continues to rise, there are going to be more people wanting information about this resource.Following are answers to three of the most frequently asked questions about ethanol.How is ethanol made? In short, ethanol is a clear alcohol (oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon) that is predominately manufactured via the fermentation of plant matter mainly sugars and starches (corn and sugar cane are two examples). (more…)

Biodiesel. You’ve probably already heard the word bandied about the water cooler.But guess what? You’re going to be hearing it even more as it continued to be looked at as an alternative fuel source.So, here’s a quick look at some information to make you more prepared for that next conversation.

• By definition, biodiesel is the name of a clean burning fuel alternative that is manufactured from renewable resources that are domestically-based.
• It is made through a chemical process where the glycerin is separated from fats or vegetable oil which in turn leaves behind two products: biodiesel (used for fuel) and glycerin (used in soaps, lotions, and other products).
• Contrary to some thought, biodiesel is not the same thing as raw vegetable oil. As exampled in the preceding paragraph, biodiesel is the result of a “process” which means it cannot be the “same thing as” something else. (more…)

Since you’re going to be hearing “alternative fuel” on an increasing basis as we move forward on our march toward environmental consciousness, following is a brief overview of some of the more common alternative fuel types (in no particular order).

• METHANOL (M85) is made mostly from natural gas, but methods to produce it via fermenting biomass are on the increase. One of the advantages to methanol is its virtual transparency to the end user with fuel systems of cars and trucks requiring only minor modification. A disadvantage to M85 is that it is more caustic than gasoline and as a result special oil additives are necessary to protect engines.
• ETHANOL (E85) is basically grain alcohol that is produced by fermenting biomass. The most commonly used biomass is corn, but other methods such as brewery waste are being tested. As an alternative fuel source for motor vehicles the typical blend-ratio is 85 ethanol and 15 unleaded gasoline. An advantage to ethanol is that the mixture can be used by most gasoline engines and retail outlets are becoming increasingly popular. A disadvantage to E85 is its cost as compared to gasoline. (more…)