FTC FACTS for Consumers
FOR THE CONSUMER1-877-FTC-HELPftc.govFEDERAL TRADE COMMISSIOND
riving a car fueled by something other than gasoline or diesel fuel is no longer
the stuff of science fiction. In addition to conventional gasoline and diesel fuel,
reformulated — cleaner — gasoline and alternative fuels now are sold in many parts of the
country. Alternative fuels such as methanol, ethanol, compressed natural gas, liquefied
petroleum gas, and electricity produce fewer tail pipe pollutants than conventional gasoline
and diesel fuel. Using them could improve air quality.
Congress passed the Energy Policy Act in 1992 to promote the use of alternative fuels.
For example, the law requires owners of fleet vehicles to purchase a certain number of
alternative fueled vehicles. Congress also directed the Federal Trade Commission (FTC),
the nation’s consumer protection agency, to issue labeling requirements for alternative fuels
and alternative fueled vehicles. The Alternative Fuels and Vehicles (AFV) Rule and the
Fuel Rating Rule require fuel dispensers and alternative fueled vehicles to be labeled with
information to help consumers make knowledgeable decisions when it comes to filling up or
buying a vehicle. The AFV Rule applies to new and used alternative fueled vehicles that are
sold to consumers or leased to them for at least 120 days.
AUTOMOBILESConsider the Alternatives:
Alternative Fueled Vehicles and
Alternative Vehicle Fuels
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ALTERNATIVES
Facts for Consumers
ALTERNATIVE FUELED VEHICLES
AFVs are vehicles that operate on alternative
fuels, such as methanol, ethanol, compressed
natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, or electricity,
as designated by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Some AFVs that can run on conventional fuels
like gasoline as well as alternative fuels, are
called dual-fueled vehicles.
The required labels must be in plain view on the
surface of all new and used AFVs. The labels on
new AFVs must include the vehicle’s cruising
range as estimated by the manufacturer, as well
a