Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Natural Gas Vehicles

What is natural gas?

Natural gas consists primarily of methane gas (CH4), as well as other hydrocarbon compounds.

What is Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)?

Natural gas is transported through pipelines and stored under compression (increased pressure) in order to reduce its volume and therefore save space. CNG is compressed to an even smaller volume and greater density so that it can be used as a practical vehicle fuel (i.e., to allow on-board storage with expected driving range). CNG is stored in high-pressure containers on board a vehicle, usually at a pressure of 3,000 - 3,600 pounds per square inch.

What is a Natural Gas Vehicle (NGV)?

A natural gas vehicle is a car, truck or bus that uses natural gas as its fuel.

What is meant by the term " Fast-fill CNG Station" ?

A fast-fill CNG fueling station is designed to refuel NGVs quickly (in about the same time as their gasoline or diesel fuel counterparts) depending on the size of the vehicle's fuel storage tanks. High-pressure storage is required for fast-fill refueling.

What is meant by the term " Time-Fill CNG Station" ?

Time-fill stations, sometimes referred to as slow-fill, provide NGV fueling over a longer time period, usually overnight (6 to 8 hours). Time-fill stations are less expensive than fast-fill stations, since expensive compression and storage technology is not required.