Internal combustion engines may seem antiquated to some, but the type of fuel injected into ICEs makes all the difference. Clean diesel, E85 ethanol and compressed natural gas are replacing unleaded gasoline in many applications. Manufacturers are also achieving PZEV emissions ratings in regular gas-burners thanks to improved technology.
Hydrocarbon Fuels Technology
Ford Focus
Some OEMs offer Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle-compliant variations of mainstream passenger cars, often sacrificing a small percentage of performance for a large gain in cleanliness. Others are building flexible-fuel engines able to run on both gasoline and E85 ethanol/gas. New low-sulfur diesel fuel hit pumps in the fall of 2006, and Honda is now selling the CNG-powered Civic GX in various marketplaces.
Renewable biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel help in alleviating petroleum dependency and improving air quality. As consumers demand clean and green transportation solutions in all vehicle segments, car companies are responding by optimizing existing technology and associated fuel sources.
Hyundai Elantra
You might be surprised by the number of hydrocarbon fuel vehicles that are doing their part to provide clean, low emissions transportation. Advanced technologies such as variable valve timing, direct fuel injection, continuously variable transmissions, optimized aerodynamics and low rolling resistance tires all contribute to the efficiency and cleanliness of today's mainstream cars.
Quick Tip
Resist the urge to idle your vehicle in the summer or winter for cooling or warming purposes.