Natural Gas Engines- An Economic and Environmental Fix

Cars running on oil not only use up this natural resource, but also produce significant greenhouse gases.  So what's the fix? Natural gas engines. Natural gas would save auto owners money while simultaneously reducing the negative environmental impact of driving. Many trucks and delivery companies have already began to switch, but the trend needs to continue.

 If natural gas is cheaper and more environmentally friendly, then what's holding people back? The steep price tag of a car running on natural gas. These cars are thousands of dollars more expensive up front, and especially in this economy, people are hesitant to make that commitment, even if they will benefit in the future. Public policy incentives could help fix this problem and give consumers the encouragement they need to make this change. Economists believe this will decrease recessions based on changing oil prices, while reducing emissions and pollutants. 

Cars running on natural gas are so much more expensive because they have a much heavier engine. The only natural gas passenger car in the U.S. is made by Honda and costs more than $5,000 more than the basic model. With these hefty prices people are wondering if this is even a realistic option, or if it's simply idealistic. Some countries, including Pakistan and Iran have made the switch, so it is possible, but most likely won't happen in the U.S. anytime soon. Companies such as 3M Corporation and Chesapeake Energy Corporation are working to bring down costs, and if successful, more of these vehicles would sell and according to the economies of scale theory, the prices would decrease. 

Even if prices are decreased, there will still be a consumer fear of the unknown and safety concerns. We are definitely only in the beginning stages of this idea, but it could provide huge economic advantages and help decrease the damaging pollutants our cars are now releasing into the environment. 

Annie Howard

Sources: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304192704577406431047638416.html?mod=hp_jrmodule