Gasoline Vehicles
Gasoline is the most widely used transportation fuel in the U.S., powering the majority of our personal cars. Automakers have made many technology advancements to internal combustion engines over the years to improve efficiency and performance, and reduce tailpipe, evaporative and climate change emissions.
Benefits
Gasoline vehicles are widely available—most every make and model sold comes in a gasoline version. Cars today are 99% cleaner than they were in the 1950s; mechanical enhancements have led to a substantial increase in overall efficiency and reduced pollution. Still, gasoline and diesel vehicles in California account for a significant portion of emissions in the transportation sector, making zero-emission cars such as battery-electric, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell electric cars an attractive alternative to traditional gasoline models.
How They Work
Gasoline engines are powered by a spark plug igniting a mix of air and fuel in the cylinders to turn the crankshaft. Driven largely by high gas prices and the push for cleaner vehicles, engineers have focused on developing technologies to make smaller engines more powerful and more efficient.
The introduction of fuel injection paved the way for turbocharging vehicles, resulting in increased power and fuel efficiency. Engineers developed variable valve timing, which enables the engine to optimally adjust the amount of air and fuel delivered to the valves as needed, improving overall fuel economy.
Availability
Vehicle manufacturers offer a wide variety of gasoline models, from subcompact passenger cars to full-size pickup trucks and beyond. Consumers seeking a gasoline car should make sure to compare the fuel economy and emissions ratings on the Fuel Economy and Environment Label before making a selection.
Performance
Gasoline vehicles vary in performance based on the size of the engine and the type of vehicle—a small compact car with a 4-cylinder engine may have good handling, but its power and acceleration will not compare to a sports car or sport utility vehicle with a larger engine. Automakers have always made performance a priority when designing new vehicles, from the engine technology, driving dynamics, and vehicle weight to the body shape and design.
Costs
Costs for new gasoline vehicles range widely depending on the make and model you choose. Compact and midsize cars are priced typically between $25,000-$35,000, but larger and more luxurious models range much higher.
Incentives
Gasoline vehicles do not typically qualify for incentives; however, there are programs that offer up to $9,500 to retire, scrap or replace older, more-polluting vehicles with a newer, cleaner model. Search Incentives for more information.