Fuels of the Future: What’s New in Alternative Energy

Alternative Fuel Options

Despite the recent slump in gas prices, the news is out that gasoline is not a sustainable option for preserving our environment. In an effort to move away from the gas pump, scientists and engineers around the world are designing alternative fuel options for vehicles which empower the consumer without damaging the environment. Our Denver auto body repair pros are here to present you with the latest in alternative fuel vehicles.

Hydrogen

Long thought to be the golden goose, recent advances in hydrogen fuel cell technology have made it a viable option for alternative fuel vehicles. Hydrogen vehicles use either fuel cells to generate electricity or a hydrogen combustion engine to generate power. The beauty of hydrogen vehicles is that they emit nothing but water. The crux is that fueling stations are virtually nonexistent, making owning one a bit of a pain. Unfortunately, without a significant push from energy companies, hydrogen vehicles will not become available to general consumers.

Electricity

Electric cars have taken off in recent years due to the high prices of gasoline. Although limited in range, they do make great alternative fuel vehicles for the right person. Battery technology has also come a long way, allowing charges to be done faster and go for more miles. Many electric vehicles incorporate a gasoline engine to be used as a backup when you run out of energy.

Bio-diesel

Biodiesel is fuel made from cooking oil or grease. The grease is converted to diesel using a chemical process which makes it combustible and usable in your diesel engine. Although it is not the easiest process, biodiesel does burn cleaner than fossil diesel and is much cheaper to come by.

Liquefied Natural Gas

Natural gas is found in between layers of underground rock and is generally used to fuel kitchen stoves and such. Although it is still drilled for, it burns much cleaner and the reserves are far more readily available. When cooled, the gas condenses to a liquid and releases far more energy when burned. Liquefied natural gas is generally used for powering large equipment or heavy duty trucks over long distances.

Liquid Nitrogen

Like hydrogen, there is no shortage of nitrogen in the atmosphere. And it also burns cleaner than gasoline and diesel. Where the two differ is that nitrogen requires a special engine. Chambers are installed which keep the nitrogen cold and ready to be pumped into the engine. Once in the engine, the nitrogen is heated and the resulting expansion is used to power the movement of the pistons. Unfortunately, it faces the same problems as other viable alternative fuels – a lack of fueling stations caused by intentional lobbying by large energy companies who are reliant on fossil fuel profits.

In the years to come, hopefully manufacturers will put on the pressure to energy companies to move past fossil fuels into an era of clean alternative fuel vehicles. For now, take a look at what is out there before buying your next car. You might be surprised by the wealth of options of available.

How to use this information

At Accurate Auto Body, we have the skills and equipment to help you with your alternative energy vehicle. No matter what it runs off, we guarantee we can fix it. If you are in need of auto repair, be sure to give Accurate Auto Body a call at 303-344-2122 or contact us through our website for more information and we will be happy help!

 Which alternative fuel option seems the most viable to you?