This paper reviews the role of alternative energy sources in addressing air pollution problems caused by motor vehicles. The cost, availability and policy-effectiveness of reducing emissions with a range of alternative fuel and electric vehicle options is analysed as well as their probable effects on emissions of local and global air pollutants from mobile sources. Alternative fuels are a potential means of reducing local pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from transport. Emission reductions are highest for gaseous fuels and electric vehicles using renewable energy sources. While some alternative fuels can be cost-competitive with gasoline, they have relatively small environmental advantages. The main market opportunity for these fuels is likely to continue to be in light-duty vehicle fleets. Car owner-drivers will prefer fuels that can be used in existing vehicles such as reformulated gasoline containing ethers derived from ethanol or methanol. (Author/publisher).
Samenvatting