You may think it’s shocking, but understanding alternative fuel sources like biofuel and electricity isn’t algaebra. In this episode, Tamara visited Exonn and learned about the current research being done regarding biofuel. Certain biofuels like algae fuel are being grown and harvested so they can go directly into current diesel engines, thereby helping the environment by emitting roughly 50% fewer greenhouse gases. In addition to the biofuel we saw in this episode, there are several different energy sources with the potential to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions in the automobile industry.

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Natural Gas

Once it has been compressed and liquified, this energy source burns cleanly. It’s made of methane which is nonrenewable, however, biomethane can be used as well which is a renewable resource. As opposed to some other methods of green fuel, this option is lowcost and has a higher market availability, which makes it more likely that we’ll see the world shift in its direction. For engines that aren’t compatible with this fuel source, engine conversion kits are available.

Electric

By now, you’re likely at least somewhat familiar with the idea of electric-powered vehicles. These vehicles are on the rise, being made so they can run either entirely on electricity or as hybrids so they can run on both gas and electric. Though they cost more initially, they pay for themselves over time and, as the industry grows, the availability of charging stations is also on the rise.

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Solar Power

The world’s first solar-powered vehicle, Sion Solar Car, is currently available for pre-orders and will be released later in 2019 (outside of the U.S.). According to Hot Cars, the vehicle contains 248 solar cells and living moss in the dashboard for natural air filtration. It runs on a combination of solar and electric power because the solar energy will provide you with 21 miles worth of power.

P-Series Fuels

This is another form of biofuel, but this version of the energy source is produced through byproducts of garbage, consisting of natural gas, methyl tetrahydrofuran, and ethanol. Though it cannot be used in typical gasoline vehicles, the appeal of switching to this source of fuel is that it helps to solve two environmental issues- gas emissions and waste management.

We know one thing for sure- we’ll never get tire-d of seeing companies take steps to be more environmentally friendly.