Vehicles that use alternative fuels, such as biodiesel, electricity, and natural gas help to reduce carbon emissions and increase our energy security. The Massachusetts Clean Cities Coalition promotes the adoption of alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs), supports development of the infrastructure necessary to make AFVs viable transportation options, and aims to change our communities for the better.
- This page, Alternative fuels and electric vehicles 101, is offered by
- Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
- Emerging Technology Division
Alternative fuels and electric vehicles 101
Table of Contents
Alternative fuel types
Biodiesel is a clean-burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources. It is biodegradable, nontoxic, and almost free of sulfur and aromatic pollutants. Pure biodiesel does not contain petroleum, but it can be mixed with petroleum diesel.
The American Coalition for Ethanol presents this overview of ethanol. Ethanol is a clean-burning, high-octane motor fuel that is produced from domestic, renewable sources, such as crops like corn. Ethanol that is blended with unleaded gasoline, such as E10 and E85. It can be used as a motor fuel.
Natural gas is a fossil fuel composed mostly of methane. It is available as compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Natural gas is considered an alternative fuel, as it is non-toxic and clean-burning. Read about the advantages and disadvantages of natural gas on this web page from
Propane or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is A byproduct of natural gas processing and crude oil refining. It is recognized as an alternative fuel because it is non-toxic, clean burning, and mostly obtained through domestic resources.
About electric vehicles and alternative fuel
Drivers and fleets are increasingly turning to light-duty, alternative fuel, and advanced technology vehicle models that reduce petroleum use, costs, and emissions. This guide provides a comprehensive list of the 2015 light-duty models that use alternative fuels or advanced fuel-saving technologies.
Read this list of Frequently Asked Questions from the DOE's Energy Information Administration (EIA) for information on alternative fuels and vehicles. This list includes information from EIA data and statistics reports.
Medium- and heavy-duty vehicles that use alternative fuels or advanced technologies can help fleets reduce costs, meet emissions requirements, improve sustainability. This guide provides an overview of alternative fuel power systems—including engines, microturbines, and fuel cells— and hybrid propulsion systems.
Find information and resources to support the use of alternative fuels. The data center includes: a glossary, vehicle directories, incentives and laws, details about fuel types, mapping tools for alternative fueling stations and a quarterly report on alternative fuel prices.
EVs have electric motors powered by electricity stored in rechargeable battery packs. They are energy efficient and their motors produce zero emissions. This Department of Energy resource details benefits, as well as challenges of EVs.
Assistance for alternative fuel and electric vehicles
All-electric and plug-in hybrid cars purchased in or after 2010 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500. The credit amount will vary based on the capacity of the battery used to power the vehicle
This handbook aims to answer your basic questions and help you decide if an electric-drive vehicle is right for you.
This handbook answers basic questions for locations interested in hosting a public charging station. Businesses, office buildings, parking garages, and more can host public charging stations. A suitable property could contribute to—and benefit from—the growing PEV sector. Learn about PEVs and charging infrastructure.
This handbook answers basic questions about plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and charging equipment. This information will help you determine if your organization should offer workplace charging for employees. Learn about important steps for implementing workplace charging stations.
This handbook aims to answer your questions about plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and charging infrastructure. Directs you to additional information to help you make the best decisions for your fleet.
This handbook is for electrical contractors interested in residential or commercial charging stations. Find answers to your questions and your customers’ questions about PEVs and charging infrastructure. Directs you to additional information to help you make the best decisions for your fleet.
Cars and light truck owners interested in changing their vehicle’s fuel type must follow the EPA's certification procedures to avoid tampering violations.
Alternative fuel and electric vehicle organizations
Find more information about EVs, including case studies, EVSE site location studies, and information for employers, local governments, multi-unit dwellings and utility companies.
eNow is an innovative, clean technology company that uses flexible solar technology to help the transportation industry realize substantial economic, environmental and regulatory benefits.
Additional Resources
Find information on multiple alternative fuels, provided by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Read reports, guides, and more on the Clean Cities Coalition program from the U.S. Department of Energy.
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