What is natural gas?

Natural gas, found in reservoirs deep below the earth’s surface and ocean floors, is formed by the decay of organic matter. Natural gas reserves come from large quantities of plant and animal remains that have accumulated between layers of sediment on the bottoms of lakes and oceans over millions of years. The pressure from the layers of sediment and the heat from the earth’s core convert the organic materials into natural gas, petroleum and coal. All oil deposits contain natural gas, although natural gas is often found without oil.

How abundant is natural gas in the United States?

Natural gas in the second largest energy resource in the United States, behind coal. In fact, 98 percent of the natural gas used in the U.S. is from North America. There are at least 22 shale basins located onshore in more than 20 states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, West Virginia, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York and Michigan. We have enough natural gas in the U.S. to last us more than 100 years!

Why should I convert to natural gas vehicles?

It’s Cheaper
Fuel costs for NGVs are at least 15 percent less using natural gas rather than gasoline or diesel. Maintenance costs are often less in NGVs because natural gas burns cleaner than most other fuels. For example, engine parts such as spark plugs stay cleaner while operating on natural gas.

It’s Cleaner
Natural gas is much cleaner than coal, diesel, or gasoline. According to the California Energy Commission, greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas are 23 percent lower than diesel and 30 percent lower than gasoline. In fact, the natural gas-fueled Civic GX produced by American Honda has been rated the “Greenest Vehicle” for five consecutive years by the American Council for an Energy-Efficiency Economy.

It Reduces Our Dependence on Foreign Oil

Today, we import 70 percent of the oil we use, sending billions of dollars to countries that are not friendly to the United States. Natural gas is truly an American resource — about 98 percent of the natural gas we use comes from the United States and Canada. What’s more, we have over a century’s supply of natural gas right here in America.

What is the difference between natural gas vehicle engines and gasoline engines?

Engines powered by natural gas work similarly to gasoline engines, with an internal combustion process that is ignited by a spark plug. The engines are compatible with diesel engines, but unlike gasoline or diesel, the natural gas used is in gaseous form, not liquid. This avoids many risks associated with gasoline fuel, including spillage onto the ground and a wide range of flammability. The characteristics of this clean-burning fuel also increase engine life because NGV engines require less maintenance for problems like carbon depositsa.

Are natural gas vehicles safe?

Yes, natural gas vehicles are safe, as proven by federally mandated tests, including collision, fire and high pressure tests. Unlike gasoline, which can spill and remain on the ground at an accident scene, natural gas quickly dissipates because it is lighter than air. Additionally, natural gas has an ignition temperature double that of gasoline, so an accidental fire is unlikely.