Why not Natural gas for cars and trucks?

Question

Its almost clean, it would cut our pollution dramatically, we have a huge amount of it right here in the USA, cars and trucks can be converted easily,it would be reasonable in cost to use, we already have the pipeline distribution network, we even have some fueling stations, I think it should be mandated that the auto companies start building them now.

Answer 1

Because mandates suck! Are you a commie or something? America is great because of it's freedom of choice. If you think it's such a great idea do it for yourself but don't suggest that the politicians we vote into office ought to force anyone to do anything! The problem of our foreign dependency arose from a similar idiot believing there should be a mandate handed down to prevent oil drilling. How about a mandate that ALL government vehicles be powered by alternative fuel sources, or that no branch of government (with the exception of local law enforcement, terrain pending) be allowed to operate SUV's. Why do government officials need to run around in SUV's when there's no snow on the ground, roads are paved, and are followed by other SUV's in the same pack?

Answer 2

I agree that natural gas is a good way to go, but I would never support a government mandate that forces private businesses to do something.

I think the government should focus on educating people about the advantages of natural gas cars, and offer incentives such as tax breaks and the right to use carpool lanes for people who drive natural gas cars.

When people start demanding natural gas vehicles, businesses will start offering them. Free market capitalism will force businesses to offer what consumers want and are willing to pay for. Another government imposed regulation on private business is not the answer.

Answer 3

not enough horsepower

Answer 4

What about propane?  Schwanns home food delivery trucks are all run on propane and they're considered the greenest fleet of trucks in America.

Answer 5

It's being done in Europe.

Answer 6

Because U.S. power plants use too much of it to power our entire fleet. You need to change them over first. Nuclear, win, solar etc.

Even then I'm not sure we could power our entire transportation system with natural gas. But it would be enough to be energy independent.