Alternative Fueled Vehicles

AFVs are vehicles that operate on alternative fuels, such as methanol, ethanol, compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, electricity, and others designated by the U.S. Department of Energy. Some AFVs can run on conventional fuels, such as gasoline, and alternative fuels. They are called dual-fueled vehicles.

The required labels must be placed in plain view on the surface of all new and used AFVs. The labels on new AFVs must include the vehicle's cruising range as estimated by the manufacturer and its environmental impact, as well as general descriptive information. It's important to know how many miles your new AFV will travel on a supply of fuel because, gallon for gallon, some AFVs don't travel as far as gasoline-powered vehicles. The label's description of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) emission standard for the vehicle tells you to what extent the vehicle produces emissions. If a vehicle meets an EPA emissions standard, a box on the label will be marked and a caret (^) will be placed above the particular vehicle's certification standard. The label shows the levels of emissions standards in a series of boxes that range from a "Tier l" vehicle - one with more emissions - to a "ZEV" - a zero emissions vehicle.

The labels on new and used AFVs also advise consumers to consider the following items before buying or leasing an AFV.

   1. Fuel type. Ask what kind of fuel powers the vehicle.
   2. Operating costs. Fuel and maintenance costs for AFVs may differ from gasoline or diesel-fueled vehicles.
   3. Performance/convenience. Vehicles powered by different fuels vary in their ability to start when they are cold; their acceleration rates; the time it takes to completely refill the vehicle's tank; and how they are refueled.
   4. Fuel availability. Find out whether refueling or recharging facilities are available in your area for the fuel the vehicle uses.
   5. Energy security/renewability. Consider where and how the fuel powering the vehicle is produced so you can anticipate long-term fuel availability at a reasonable price.

In addition, because all vehicles affect the environment directly (tailpipe emissions) and indirectly (how the fuel is produced and brought to market), the labels on used AFVs advise consumers to compare the environmental costs of driving an AFV to driving a gasoline-powered vehicle.