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Hybrid Cars & Alt Fuels: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
CNG Conversion Companies
Converting a conventional gasoline car to compressed natural gas with a CNG conversion kit may be complex, but not necessarily difficult. Here are companies that offer kits and/or installation.
Propane and LPG Conversions
Propane and LPG conversion kits can convert your gasoline vehicle into a bi-fuel or alt fuel vehicles. Here are some kits and companies that offer street-ready and off-road kits and conversions.
Mis-fueling a diesel
It can happen to anyone, learn about the problems associated with mis-fueling a diesel vehicle.
How Electric Motors Work
Electric cars hybrids rely upon electric motors for propulsion and assistance--learn more about how these electric motors and generators work.
What is a PZEV?
Learn the definition of a PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle).
What is CRD
Find out how diesel common rail direct injection (CRD) works.
E85 Compatible Vehicles
Wondering if your vehicle is E85 compatible? Start here to find the model and year to confirm if you have a flex-fuel vehicle that can utilize E85.
Carbon Neutral
The definition of the term carbon neutral.
What is PSI?
The definition of PSI.
How Regenerative Braking Works
Learn how hybrids and all-electric vehicles create their own power for battery recharging through a process known as regenerative braking.
What is Cetane?
Learn about cetane and how the cetane number can affect diesel engine performance.
Hybrid Battery Replacement
Learn about the replacement cost and life of hybrid batteries.
Used Veggie Oil for Fuel
Learn the tricks of the trade for collecting good quality used vegetable oil for making homemade biodiesel or for use in a converted diesel engine.
Gasoline Gallon Equivalents
Gasoline Gallon Equivalents are based on British Thermal Units (BTUs), this gasoline gallon equivalents chart compares the energy content of various fuels to that of a gallon of regular gasoline.
What is GVWR?
The definition of GVWR, the gross vehicle weight rating.
What is a Throttle Body?
The definition of a throttle body.
Hybrid Battery Recharge
Learn more about the batteries in hybrid vehicles.
Energy: Potential & Kinetic
Learn how the law of energy applies to hybrid and all-electric cars.
DPF Delete Kit on F-250
A reader wonders if he should install a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) delete kit on his 2008 Ford F-250 truck.
Civic EX vs. Hybrid Fuel Tests
The rubber hits the road in Scott's driving testorama in which his four tests provide a real life head-to-head comparison of the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder Honda Civic vs. the 1.3-liter Honda Civic Hybrid.
Make Your Own Biodiesel-Part 1
Ever wonder how to make your own biodiesel? We'll walk you through it with step-by-step instructions and photos.
What is a Lean-Burn?
A description of lean-burn engine technology.
Electronic Throttle Control
A description and the workings of electronic throttle control technology.
How Inverter Converters Work
Learn how inverters and converters work to condition electricity for power and recharging in hybrids and EVs.
Flex-fuel (E85) Vehicle Basics
Learn the basics about what a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) is and how it works.
Question: Kero in a Diesel?
A regular reader writes in asking if gasoline can be mixed with oil to run in a diesel engine. Scott answers, and sheds light on the many fuels that can run in a diesel.
Biodiesel from Algae
There are several ways for extracting oil from algae to produce biodiesel.
Hybrid Tax Credits
Find out how much of a federal tax credit you're due if you buy a hybrid in the United States.
Hybrid Incentive Programs
Tax credits, rebates and incentives available for hybrid vehicles.
EV Conversion Companies
Here's our constantly-growing reference listing of companies that offer electric vehicle (EV) conversions and all-electric car components.
Gas & Petroleum Origins
Learn the origins of the terms gasoline and petroleum, words used to describe our everyday motor fuel.
What is Biodiesel?
The basic facts about biodiesel, an alternative fuel made from vegetable oil.
What is Syngas?
Learn more about Syngas and its use as a fuel.
Electric Car Facts
Undertand the basics on electric cars.
Five Fun Facts on Hybrid Cars
You may know how hybrid vehicles works, but did you know these five fun facts about these alternative fuel vehicles?
Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel 101
Learn the basics on ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD) and how it affects newer and older diesel vehicles.
2012 Cheapest Hybrids
These hybrid vehicles are available in 2012 with a MSRP below $30,000.
2013 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid
The 2013 Toyota Prius Plug-In offers Prius enthusiasts and all-electric ride.
Fuel Mileage Drops with E85
Find out why fuel economy drops in a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) when running E85.
How Do Fuel Cells Work?
How do fuel cells make electricity? What is the fuel for fuel cells? What kinds of fuel cells exist? Find the answers here.
What is Alternative Fuel?
Alternative fuels; we're not talking about gasoline, diesel or kerosene. Think cleaner and also domestically produced: Discover the array of alternative fuels that offer hope and possibility for life after traditional fossil fuels.
What is Electrolysis?
The definition of electrolysis.
What is Gasification?
Learn more about what gasification is and the thermo-chemical process by which carbon-rich feedstocks are converted into syngas.
How Safe is Hydrogen?
A lot of misinformation about the safety of hydrogen is circulating as truth, much of it urban legend generated by the crash of the airship Hindenburg. Separate myth from truth and learn the true nature of hydrogen.
'07 Chevy Silverado test drive
It's all in a day's work when you start with a Silverado and add in a Duramax diesel engine and Allison transmission - by Christine and Scott Gable
SCR Emissions Control
Learn about Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), a method of converting harmful diesel oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions, by catalytic reaction, into benign nitrogen gas and water.
What is Hydrogen?
Find the basic facts on hydrogen, an alternative fuel that can power fuel cells in electric vehicles.
What is Regenerative Braking?
The definition of regenerative braking.
AdBlue Diesel Fluid
AdBlue is a brand name for for Diesel Emissions Fluid. Learn how this urea solution is used to scrub oxides of nitrogen from diesel exhaust.
Propane Conversion Companies
These companies provide propane conversion kits or services.
Five Facts About CNG
Here are five quick facts to know about compressed natural gas use in vehicles.
How Hybrids Work
Learn about the inner workings of a hybrid vehicle, and how they seamlessly integrate an internal combustion engine, an electric motor and a battery.
What is Spark Ignition?
The definition of spark ignition.
Hybrid Car Question: Altima
How long should the Altima Hybrid stay in EV Mode? Should the gasoline engine be less active than EV Mode? Find out what's up with this 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid car owner's question.
Carbon Sequestration
The definition of carbon sequestration.
Can You Run Your Car on Water?
We've all seen the ads that purport converting your car to run on water. Here's what to beware of.
Natural Gas & LPG maintenance
Learn how to maintain your natural gas or propane powered vehicle.
What is Compression Ignition?
An explanation of compression ignition.
Cylinder Deactivation
Have you heard of cylinder deactivation but don’t know what it is? Maybe you’ve heard it called Active Fuel Management or Displacement on Demand. Well, find out just what cylinder deactivation is, why it’s a good idea and how it works.
Biodiesel Recipe
Good quality waste vegetable oil is an important part of this recipe for making homebrewed biodiesel fuel.
2008 F-250 Super Duty 4X4
Ford's 6.4L Power Stroke diesel is the heart and soul of this truck where white collar meets blue collar - by Christine & Scott Gable
Reasons to Switch
Why should you change your ways and go from using traditional fuels to the alternatives? Here are the top 10 reasons to go for it.
What's Fuel Atomization?
The definition of atomization.
Propane Vehicles Available
Learn more about the availability of propane powered vehicles for 2008.
2008 Grand Cherokee test drive
Refreshed for 2008, the heart and soul of the Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD is still a powerful biodiesel-capable SUV - by Christine & Scott Gable
BlueTEC System
Learn about the BlueTEC diesel exhaust treatment system developed by Mercedes-Benz.
What is Miles per Gallon?
The definition of miles per gallon (mpg).
2010 VW Jetta TDI
A review of the 2010 VW Jetta TDI clean diesel
Maintaining Hybrid Vehicles
Keep your hybrid running its best by following these guidelines for regular maintenance.
2008 E85 Compatible Vehicles
Check out the complete listing of E85 compatible vehicles for 2008. Can you fuel up on e85 and gasoline?
Hybrids: Real Deal or Hype?
Are hybrids just more marketing hype--or are they the real deal to saving fuel and emissions?
Why Winter Fuel Economy Drops
Find out what to do to lessen the cold weather's effect on your vehicle's fuel economy.
DIY WVO Part 1
Part 1 of a series on running a car on WVO
Algae Production Costs
Algae holds promise as an alternative fuel, but development may be hindered by high costs of commercial production.
What is a flywheel?
The definition of a vehicle flywheel.
What is E85?
The definition of E85 fuel.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Working Diagrams
From Proton Exchange Membrane to Molten Carbonate, these diagrams illustrate how various types of fuel cells work.
What is the Otto Cycle?
The definition of the Otto cycle engine.
Greenhouse Gases
The definition of greenhouse gases.
Global Warming Solution
Global warming--it's a hot topic. Learn how you can take action to reduce your vehicle's greenhouse gas and carbon dioxide emissions.
What is a DPF?
The definition of a Diesel Particulate Filter
How Safe is Natural Gas?
Do the physical properties of natural gas and the design characteristics of natural gas make it a safe motor fuel?
HCCI Engine Basics
It's diesel compression ignition technology for gasoline engines. Learn how and why this old yet new fuel-saving technology is on the come back, along with its advantages and disadvantages.
What is Ethanol?
The basic facts about ethanol, an alternative fuel derived from corn, grains or agricultural waste or it is chemically extracted from ethylene.
Cold Weather & Diesels
Check out these three things to keep your diesel running smoothly all winter long and eliminate those cold weather starting problems.
Atkinson Cycle Engine
The definition of the Atkinson Cycle in an engine.
What's Detonation
The definition of detonation in a vehicle engine.
20 Easiest Tips to Save Fuel
Here's our list of the best ways to drive more efficiently and help the fuel tank stay fuller, longer.
Natural Gas Conversion Questions
Before undertaking natural gas conversion of your vehicle, be sure you know what questions to consider regarding regulations, cost and infrastructure.
What is Methanol?
Find out the basic facts on methanol, an alternative fuel made from woody plant fiber, coal or natural gas.
Hypermiling Techniques
Hypermiling for superior fuel economy: Learn the tricks and techniques employed in hypermiling to maximize your vehicle's fuel mileage.
EGR valve
The definition of an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve.
What's Octane Rating Mean
The definition of octane rating.
Question: Biodiesel in F250?
A reader wonders what levels of biodiesel are safe to run in his new Ford truck.
08 Lexus LS 600h L test drive
This uncompromising high performance premier luxury class sedan has an ecological soft side - by Scott & Christine Gable
Phill CNG refueling appliance - photo gallery
Check out these photos of the Phill natural gas home refueling appliance.
What's a Fuel Cell?
What is a fuel cell? How long have fuel cells been around? Who invented fuel cells? Find the answers here.
Propane 101
Propane is powering more than barbecue grills. Find the basic facts on propane (liquified propane gas or LPG) as an alternative fuel.
Pulse and Glide
Hypermiling using Pulse and Glide (P&G) for superior fuel ecomomy.
What is Propane?
Learn the basic facts on natural gas, an alternative fuel that is a by-product of oil drilling and coal mining.
Biobutanol
Learn the production and process basics of biobutanol, an alcohol-based motor fuel. Read how biobutanol is used as a motor fuel in addition to its pros and cons.
DIY WVO FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about running a car on WVO
Buy a Natural Gas Vehicle
Learn what vehicles are available to utilize the cleaner burning benefits of natural gas.
What's a Two-Mode Hybrid?
Find out what a two-mode hybrid is, how two-mode hybrids work, and what makes them different from full hybrids.
2008 Dodge RAM 3500 test drive
2008 Dodge RAM 3500 Mega Cab 4x4 is a diesel powered behemoth - by Christine & Scott Gable
Instant Fuel Consumpt Display
The definition of and an explanation of how an instant fuel consumption display works.
Five Facts About Propane
Here are five facts to know about this popular fleet vehicle fuel.
2012 Electric Cars
Gallery and review of 2012 electric cars.
2007 Chevy Silverado Duramax Diesel - 2500HD/3500HD - Photo Gallery
The 2007 Chevrolet Silverado Duramax Diesel 6.6L V8 2500HD/3500HD truck photo gallery.
Drop-in Fuels
Drop-in fuels take many forms, but their commonality is the ability to be used without major changes in infrastructure.
Hybrid Wintertime Blues
Find out why winter's dropping temperatures affect hybrid fuel economy--and how to fight back.
Fuel Injector Pulse Width
An explanation of fuel injector pulse width.
What's Bagasse?
The definition of bagasse.
2008 Civic Hybrid test drive
The 2008 Civic Hybrid delivers a no muss, no fuss performance—especially in the “fill ‘er up” department - by Scott & Christine Gable
What is Bioethanol?
The definition of bioethanol.
2009 ZENN electric car
Photo of the 2009 ZENN electric car.
2003 E85 Compatible Vehicles
Is your 2003 vehicle E85 compatible? Check this list to be sure you have a flex-fuel vehicle.
'08 Mercedes C300 test drive
Performance plus precise handling make this dual fuel ride a persuasive package - by Scott & Christine Gable
Titration for Biodiesel
Titration is one method used to determine the appropriate amount of lye (base) needed for a particular batch of waste vegetable oil when making homemade biodiesel.
Flex-fuel Vehicle Maintenance
Do you have an FFV? Do you use E85? What you need to know about maintaining your flex-fuel vehicle.
Got Alt fuel? Start here.
Find answers to basic questions about alternative fuels. From where to find biodiesel to FAQs on hybrids (do I need to plug it in?) and where to buy E85 for flex-fuels, we'll answer your alternative fuel questions here.
AFV Maintenance Schedule
Alternative fuel vehicle general maintenance schedule based on time and mileage.
What is a SULEV?
Check out the definition of an SULEV, a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle.
Defining Alternative Energy
Alternative energy is a term applied to a number of green energy technologies
What's a Flywheel Hybrid?
Learn more about a flywheel hybrid, a hybrid car with a flywheel storage device.
2009 Honda Civic GX test drive
Aaron Gold test drives and reviews the only production natural gas car on the market.
Why Should I Care?
What's the big deal? Does it really matter if I fill up with gasoline or propane? Learn why renewables are making such a big impact in the energy world.
Question: Elec Car Recharging
Alternators and voltage regulators have been in automotive vehicles for years--find out the answer to this reader's question on why an electric car needs to be plugged in to recharge.
2010 Honda Insight test drive
Aaron Gold test drives and reviews Honda's newest hybrid, the 2010 Insight.
2007 Lexus RX 400h test drive
With the power of a 3.3-liter V-6 combined with electric drive motors, this all-wheel drive SUV provides the power to drive into a new life - by Christine and Scott Gable
Electricity as an Alternative
Electricity is an alternative fuel. Learn the basic facts on how electricity has joined the rank of the other alternatives: it may just be the fuel of choice for your next vehicle.
2013 Hybrid Vehicles
New line up of 2013 hybrid cars,trucks and SUVs.
VTEC rockers
The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid VTEC rockers.
What is Natural Gas?
Learn the basics about natural gas and its use as an alternative fuel.
F-250 Diesel
2008 Ford F-250 Diesel
Five Facts About Biodiesel
Five facts that you should know about biodiesel.
Autos & Global Warming
How do auto manufacturers contribute to global warming? Learn more about vehicles' contribution to the earth's carbon load.
How Do Plug-in Hybrids Work?
Plug-in hybrids take electric vehicles to the next level. Plug-ins are designed to rely predominantly on the electric motor for propulsion, with the internal combustion engine as back-up. Learn more about how they work.
NGVs Available
Learn more about the current availability of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles.
Hybrid Central
Whether you're looking to bone up on hybrid car basics and maintenance or looking for photos and test drives of the latest hybrid car models, start here to find the answers.
Oxides of Nitrogen - NOx
The definition of oxides of nitrogen (NOx)
2007 Chevy Suburban test drive
Flex-fuel power adds to the practical utility and classic comfort of this large SUV - by Christine & Scott Gable
Hybrid Maintenance Cost
Learn why the cost of maintaining a hybrid car is quite similar to the expenses of maintaining a conventional car.
Biodiesel 101
Find answers to all your questions about biodiesel, an alternative fuel made from vegetable oil.
2008 Electric Cars
Check out the electric cars currently available in 2008.
Determining if a Diesel is Right For You
The use of biodiesel is growing, but it is important to understand how this form of diesel is differentiated from other types of this fuel.
2007 Grand Cherokee test drive
This mid-size SUV offers clean diesel off-road capability - by Christine & Scott Gable
2007 GMC Sierra Duramax Diesel - 2500HD/3500HD - Photo Gallery
The 2007 GMC Sierra Duramax Diesel 6.6L V8 2500HD/3500HD truck photo gallery.
What is a Clean Diesel?
Clean diesels utilize advanced fuel delivery and exhaust scrubbing technology that take advantage of the 15 ppm sulfur content of ultra low sulfur diesel (ULSD). Learn more here.
2007 E85 Compatible Vehicles
Here’s the complete listing of E85 compatible vehicles for 2007. Is yours here?

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