Question: Why is Electricity an Alternative Fuel?
Pumping electrons instead of liquid fuel makes for a different kind of alternative fuel.
Answer:
Electricity is considered an alternative fuel since it is used to charge the batteries that power the motors in electric vehicles. Electric cars can also be powered by hydrogen fuel cells instead of batteries.
Even though the vehicle itself produces zero pollutants, when emissions from the power generating stations from traditional sources (coal, oil-fired or nuclear) are factored in, battery powered electric cars still produce less than 10 percent of the emissions of standard internal combustion engine cars. Add to that the fact that every year more wind and solar generating stations are coming online—making clean electricity more available and accessible. In addition, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles create their own electricity with no emissions at all. Electricity may just be one of the alternatives that could help power your lifestyle, joining thousands of people who have already made the switch.
This power source has much promise, but is heavily dependent upon breakthroughs in the development of longer lasting more economical and efficient batteries, in addition to further research to make fuel cells practical.
Learn More About Electricity: Electricity 101
More Hybrid Information:
Hybrids 101
Why is electricity an alt fuel? How exactly do mild, full and plug-in hybrids work? Plus FAQs about hybrids.
Hybrid Buying Guide
Check out the photos and test drives of current hybrid models, plus the lowdown on up-and-coming models.
Hybrid Maintenance and Safety Issues
Get the scoop on hybrid maintenance: from routine maintenance and professional repairs to safety issues and “beware the orange.”
Hybrid Tax Credits & Rebates
They go hand-in-hand: reduce your taxes and greenhouse gas contribution when you buy a hybrid vehicle.
Learn More at Hybrid Central
The Alternative Fuel Bible: Find Answers to Your Fuel & Vehicle QuestionsMore Hybrid Cars & Alt Fuels Q&A