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Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFVs)
TxDOT is committed to reducing vehicle emissions by implementing low-emission
technologies in our equipment fleet. We are using
alternative fuels,
cleaner-burning diesel fuels and new equipment to:
- provide cleaner air for Texans,
- decrease dependence on foreign oil, and
- comply with state and federal environmental laws.
Provide Cleaner Air for Texans
TxDOT's on-road fleet is making our air cleaner by using alternative fuels.
In fiscal year 2005, our fleet of 4,500 alternative fuel vehicles helped reduce
gasoline consumption by 5 million gallons. Our alternative fuel vehicles run on
natural gas or
propane and produce much less air pollution than gasoline-powered
vehicles.
Decrease Dependence on Foreign Oil
In addition to using 5 million fewer gallons of gasoline, we are studying
the viability of bringing an ethanol-blended fuel (E85) to the Texas market. E85
is a mixture of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Best of all, it is
made in the USA.
We are also using solar-powered traffic-control devices, such as flashing
arrow boards and message boards, rather than gasoline or diesel-powered devices
to further reduce the use of foreign oil.
Comply with Environmental Laws
Clean Diesel – We implemented the use of cleaner-burning diesel in accordance
with a required state environmental plan two years ahead of schedule.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell – The Texas Legislature authorized us to study the
possibility of using hydrogen-fueled vehicles in our fleet. We are currently
developing a plan to analyze the costs involved, identify funding options and
determine the overall benefits of using hydrogen-fueled vehicles. |
