ALTERNATIVE FUELS FOR BUSES AND OTHER HEAVY VEHICLES. FINAL REPORT

A number of alternative fuels have been suggested and/or tested for use in mass transit buses. This project, a cooperative effort of researchers at Michigan State University and Wayne State University, is assessing the current status of the alternative fuel possibilities. In phase one, the study reviewed the literature on alternative fuels for buses. The first review concentrated on public transit agencies that are currently using alternative fuels. The second review covered alternative fuel research and development reports. A third review involved interviews with the automobile manufacturers and Detroit Diesel Corporation to determine current and proposed research on the use of alternative fuels. From that background, a comprehensive summary of knowledge about safety, cost, performance, and testing of alternative fuels was established. The conclusion from this analysis was that the Michigan Department of Transportation would not contribute significantly to the state of knowledge by sponsoring a demonstration program using alternative fuels. The recommendation was made that the Department fund a demonstration program on engine modification to meet the Clear Air Act standards while burning diesel fuel.