Three main sources for alternative fuels are: ethanol fuel, hydrogen fuel and electricity as fuel.

Ethanol is one of many alternative fuels and is comprised of grain alcohol that is typically made from corn. Since ethanol is created from agricultural vegetation, the ethanol as an alternative fuel can be produced within the United States. When using ethanol as an alternative fuel, the result is less greenhouse emissions. Many researchers have claimed that production of alternative fuels such as ethanol takes more energy to produce than what it can deliver.

One issue with ethanol alternative fuels is cost. Drivers can expect to may more per gallon in comparison to gasoline. Another issue with ethanol alternative fuels is the fact that ethanol contains less energy than gasoline. Basically, you will get less miles per gallon on an ethanol alternative fuels fill up.

Alternative fuels hitting the mainstream are inevitable in the United States and the world. Petroleum will not last forever.

Next week we will discuss hydrogen alternative fuels.

1. Replace Your Air Filter

Clogged air filters really force your engine to suck more gas and can drastically reduce gas mileage improvements. You can compare stuffing a sock in your mouth to having a clogged air filter in your car. It forces you to breathe harder and take in more air. You can increase your gas mileage by up to ten percent simply by changing your air filter.

2. Turn off the After Burners

When your car’s speed exceeds 60 miles per hour, your average gas mileage depletes much more rapidly. Try to keep at sixty and ride in the slow lane. So what if you are a few minutes late. You’ll have a few extra bucks in your pocket as a result.

3. Air Anyone?

Check your tire’s air level. If you keep your tires inflated to the right psi and keep your car aligned properly, you can improve gas mileage by 3 – 4 percent. Your tire’s psi is located on the outside of the tire. When you stop to fill up, check your tire pressure while you are there.

4. Plan Your Route

What wastes gas more than driving unnecessary distances? Many tools exist on the web like Google Maps that will help you find the most efficient route to drive. You can even check traffic conditions online before you set out.

5. Take the Heat

It’s hard to drive around in the summer with the blazing heat. You can make your gas last a lot longer if you avoid using your air conditioner. Roll down your windows when you can. Try to go 2 – 3 days without your ac. You will definitely see gas mileage improvements.

6. Tune ‘er Up

By keeping spark plugs and plug wires changed, you can see a significant increase in fuel efficiency. Also, make sure the plugs have the correct gaps. Ask your mechanic about proper gapping for your spark plugs. Clogged fuel injectors will cause your car to use much more gas than it needs to as well.

7. Bigger is Not Always Better

Consider downsizing. SUV’s are serious gas hogs. I’m sure if you own one you don’t need me to tell you this when you see your fuel bill. If you live close to work, consider riding a bike or purchasing a moped.

8. Hybrid for a Reason

Check into hybrid-driven cars. You can claim tax deductions by driving a vehicle with hybrid technology.