The number of models and types of alternative fuel vehicles produced by manufacturers has varied considerably over the last 22 years. In 1991, there were a total of 19 models available that did not run on gasoline, 17 of which were diesel. In 2011 the number of models began to surge, rising to 175 models by 2013 and representing seven different fuel types. It is interesting to note that there were a number of both electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) models in the late 1990s to early 2000s and they all but disappeared by 2007. Both have been making a comeback. Many of the early electric and CNG models were only available to fleets and not for sale to the general public. Hybrids and E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) flex-fuel vehicles accounted for the majority of new models available since 2010, although diesel and propane models contributed as well.

Number of Vehicle Models that Run on Fuels Other than Gasoline*, 1991-2013

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*Hybrid vehicles, which are included in this figure, use gasoline as a fuel source but are included as a type of advanced technology vehicle.

Note: Electric vehicles include plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles, but do not include Neighborhood Electric Vehicles, Low Speed Electric Vehicles, or two-wheeled electric vehicles. Only full-sized vehicles sold in the U.S. and capable of 60 mph are counted.

Supporting Information

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