|
|
 |
|
|
Natural Gas ... |
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel Description
Natural gas, which is mostly methane, comes from underground reserves. It is nontoxic and non-corrosive. It is used in motor vehicles as either compressed natural gas (CNG) at pressures up to 3600 psi, or liquid natural gas (LNG) which has been cooled to -259F. |
|
|
Fueling
Refueling of CNG vehicles is done in either a "quick-fill" mode similar to gasoline, or in a "time-fill" mode, which allows vehicles to automatically refuel overnight.
LNG vehicles are refueled using special low-temperature hoses and equipment in about the same time as gasoline or diesel vehicles. |
|
|
Fuel Availability
CNG fueling stations are located in many major cities.
Over ??? CNG refueling stations (mostly private fleets) are now in operation in Alabama.
LNG is available in Georgia directly through suppliers of cryogenic liquids.
Some open access fueling for CNG is currently available to fleets and individuals in Alabama. |
|
|
|
|
|
Vehicle Experience
Commercial fleets have used natural gas as a motor vehicle fuel for over 50 years.
Over 35,000 vehicles in the US, including nearly ??? in Alabama, and nearly one million worldwide. |
|
|
|
Operational Performance
Power, acceleration, fuel economy and cruise speed are comparable with gasoline or diesel engines. As a gaseous fuel, natural gas has superior cold weather starting and driving characteristics. Natural gas has an octane rating of 130 (higher than most premium gasolines.
Dedicated CNG vehicles are currently available with a driving range of 150-250 miles.
LNG vehicles with driving ranges similar to comparable gasoline or diesel vehicles. |
|
|
Maintenance and Reliability
Some fleets report two to three years longer engine service life and extended time between regular maintenance intervals.
The high-pressure fuel tanks require periodic inspection as part of a regular maintenance schedule. |
|
|
Costs
Fuel cost is approximately 75% that of gasoline, per gasoline gallon equivalent.
Vehicle cost for the CNG option on light and medium duty vehicles ranges from $5,000 - 7,000 MSRP (before any available incentives). |
|
|
|
2131 Data Office Drive, Suite 240 Birmingham, Alabama 35244 • 205-402-2755 • Fax 205-402-9907 email |
|
