Alternatives fuel sources: part 2
In part 1 of this article we saw that, with petrol and diesel prices rising yet again, while fuel saving through better driving practices is helping us to save money and be more environmentally compliant, it's looking increasingly likely that more of us will soon be considering alternative fuel sources to power our vehicles. In part 2 we look at some of the cleaner options now being developed.
Petrol-electric hybrid cars offer an improvement over purely petrol powered vehicles as they run on electricity at low speeds, therefore allowing a significant fuel saving and reduced emissions. It is expected that diesel-electric hybrids will be available in the near future, and these should offer even more improvements.
Battery-electric cars run purely on a battery and electric motor, meaning that they produce no emissions whatsoever when running. However, they have to be recharged every 40 to 60 miles meaning they are less suitable for long journeys. Another alternative is biofuels, the main advantage being they can be produced from sustainable plants.
Much hope is being placed in hydrogen fuel cells, particularly as the use of hydrogen does not produce any harmful waste, however it is difficult to produce at present and can be a bulky fuel source. It requires more research before it is a viable option, but the recent announcement by the Welsh Secretary, Peter Hain, that the M4 in south Wales is to become a "hydrogen highway" with refuelling points, and that Wales is also to play a key role in developing hydrogen from renewable sources shows that many people are confident that hydrogen may be the most likely alternative fuel source of the future.
Right now, the most viable options for those of us looking to try out an alternative fuel source, still seem to be either a hybrid such as the Toyota Prius, or, for city drivers, the electric G-Wiz. With the amount of research being carried out into the alternatives, however, more options may be available sooner rather than later. It seems clear, though, that whatever fuel source ends up winning the contest, safer and better driving habits, and efficient route choices will remain important, meaning vehicle tracking devices will be a part of any attempt to make fuel savings.
