Greetings Jake, and welcome to our guide on compressed natural gas cars for sale. Compressed natural gas, or CNG, is an alternative fuel that is gaining popularity due to its environmental and economic advantages. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about CNG cars, their advantages and disadvantages, and where to find them for sale.
Introduction
What are Compressed Natural Gas Cars?
Compressed natural gas cars are vehicles that run on compressed natural gas instead of conventional gasoline or diesel fuel. CNG is a cleaner-burning fuel than gasoline or diesel, with lower emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants. CNG cars are becoming more popular as people seek to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel costs.
How Do CNG Cars Work?
CNG cars are powered by internal combustion engines that have been modified to run on natural gas. The gas is stored in high-pressure tanks, usually located in the trunk or under the chassis of the car. When the driver presses the accelerator, the gas is released from the tank and flows through a regulator, which reduces the pressure and meters the gas to the engine.
Where Can You Find CNG Cars for Sale?
CNG cars are available for sale from a variety of sources, including new car dealerships, used car dealerships, and private sellers. Some car manufacturers, such as Honda and Chevrolet, offer CNG versions of their popular models, while others, such as Ford and Dodge, offer conversion kits that allow you to convert a gasoline-powered car to run on CNG.
What Are the Advantages of CNG Cars?
There are several advantages to owning a CNG car:
- Lower fuel costs: CNG is typically cheaper than gasoline or diesel fuel, which can save you money on fuel costs over time.
- Lower emissions: CNG produces fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants than gasoline or diesel, which can help to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Less dependence on foreign oil: CNG is a domestic fuel that is produced in the United States, which can help to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
- Longer engine life: CNG burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, which can help to extend the life of your engine.
What Are the Disadvantages of CNG Cars?
There are also some disadvantages to owning a CNG car:
- Limited refueling infrastructure: CNG refueling stations are not as common as gasoline or diesel stations, which can make it difficult to find a place to refill your tank.
- Reduced driving range: CNG cars have a shorter driving range than gasoline or diesel cars, which means you may need to refuel more frequently.
- Higher upfront costs: CNG cars can be more expensive to purchase than gasoline or diesel cars, due to the cost of the fuel system and tanks.
Complete Table of Compressed Natural Gas Cars for Sale
| Make and Model | Year | Engine | MPGe | Driving Range | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic Natural Gas | 2015 | 1.8-liter 4-cylinder | 31 city/40 highway | 190 miles | $27,700 |
| Chevrolet Impala Bi-Fuel | 2015 | 3.6-liter V6 | 16 city/24 highway on gasoline, 24 city/35 highway on CNG | 150 miles on CNG, 500 miles on gasoline | $38,210 |
| Ford F-150 | 2015 | 5.0-liter V8 | 15 city/22 highway on gasoline, 12 city/16 highway on CNG | 250 miles on CNG, 370 miles on gasoline | $50,000 |
| Dodge Ram 2500 | 2015 | 5.7-liter V8 | 13 city/19 highway on gasoline, 9 city/13 highway on CNG | 255 miles on CNG, 390 miles on gasoline | $49,745 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CNG and LNG?
CNG stands for compressed natural gas, while LNG stands for liquefied natural gas. CNG is stored in high-pressure tanks at room temperature, while LNG is stored at extremely low temperatures, around -260 degrees Fahrenheit, in insulated tanks. LNG is typically used in heavy-duty vehicles or marine applications, while CNG is used in passenger cars and light-duty trucks.
How much does it cost to convert a gasoline car to run on CNG?
The cost of a CNG conversion kit varies depending on the make and model of your car, as well as the type of kit you choose. On average, a CNG conversion kit can cost between $5,000 and $10,000, not including installation costs. However, there may be government incentives or tax credits available to help offset the cost of the conversion.
What is the driving range of a CNG car?
The driving range of a CNG car depends on several factors, including the size of the CNG tank, the efficiency of the engine, and the driving conditions. On average, a CNG car can travel between 150 and 400 miles on a single tank of fuel.
Can you refuel a CNG car at a regular gas station?
No, you cannot refuel a CNG car at a regular gas station. CNG refueling stations are separate from gasoline stations and have specialized equipment to compress and dispense the natural gas.
Are CNG cars safe to drive?
Yes, CNG cars are safe to drive. The natural gas tanks are designed to withstand high pressure and are tested extensively to ensure their safety. However, it is important to have your CNG system serviced and maintained by a qualified technician to ensure it is functioning properly.
What is the difference in emissions between a CNG car and a gasoline car?
CNG cars produce fewer emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants than gasoline cars. According to the EPA, CNG cars emit about 20-30% less greenhouse gases than gasoline cars, and 90% less nitrogen oxides, which contribute to smog.
Can CNG cars run on biogas?
Yes, CNG cars can run on biogas, which is produced from organic waste such as agricultural residues, food waste, and sewage. Biogas has the same composition as natural gas, but is considered a renewable fuel because it is produced from waste products that would otherwise be disposed of.
What happens if you run out of CNG while driving?
If you run out of CNG while driving, your car will simply stop running. You will need to have your car towed to a CNG refueling station to refill your tank.
What is the maintenance schedule for a CNG car?
The maintenance schedule for a CNG car is similar to that of a gasoline car. However, it is important to have the CNG system inspected and serviced by a qualified technician on a regular basis to ensure its safety and efficiency.
Can you retrofit a diesel truck to run on CNG?
Yes, it is possible to retrofit a diesel truck to run on CNG. However, the process is more complex than converting a gasoline car and may require additional modifications to the engine and fuel system.
Do CNG cars have less power than gasoline cars?
CNG cars may have slightly less power than gasoline cars, due to the lower energy content of natural gas. However, many CNG cars have been designed to compensate for this by using turbocharging or other technologies to boost their performance.
What is the cost savings of owning a CNG car?
The cost savings of owning a CNG car depend on several factors, including the cost of fuel, the driving habits of the owner, and the cost of the vehicle. However, on average, CNG cars can save owners between 30-50% on fuel costs compared to gasoline cars.
Are there any tax credits or incentives for owning a CNG car?
Yes, there are several tax credits and incentives available for owning a CNG car. These include federal tax credits of up to $7,500 for new CNG vehicles, as well as state-level incentives such as tax credits, rebates, and HOV lane access.
What is the warranty on a CNG conversion kit?
The warranty on a CNG conversion kit varies depending on the manufacturer and installer. However, most kits come with a warranty of at least one year, and some may have longer warranties or extended service plans available.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when it comes to compressed natural gas cars for sale. While there are several advantages to owning a CNG car, such as lower fuel costs and reduced emissions, there are also some disadvantages, such as limited refueling infrastructure and higher upfront costs. If you are interested in purchasing a CNG car, be sure to do your research and consider all of the factors before making your decision.
We hope that this guide has provided you with all the information you need to know about compressed natural gas cars for sale. Whether you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save money on fuel costs, or simply try out a new technology, CNG cars are an exciting option to consider.
Thank you for reading, and we wish you the best of luck in your search for the perfect CNG car!
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or financial advice. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this guide, we cannot guarantee its completeness or reliability. You should consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or legal decisions based on the information in this guide. Additionally, owning and operating a CNG car involves certain risks, and you should be aware of these risks before making your purchase. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for safe operation of your vehicle.
