What is a Dual Fueled Vehicle? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: Are dual fueled vehicles more environmentally friendly?

They can reduce emissions, but the environmental impact depends on the specific fuels used.

Q: Do I need special permits for a dual fueled vehicle?

Permits may vary by state; check local regulations for specific requirements.

Definition & Meaning

A dual fueled vehicle is a type of motor vehicle designed to operate on two different types of fuel. This can include vehicles that run on alternative fuels, such as propane or natural gas, as well as traditional fuels like gasoline or diesel. The term encompasses three main categories:

Automobiles that meet specific criteria set forth in federal regulations.
Motor vehicles, excluding automobiles, that can switch between alternative fuel and gasoline or diesel.
Flexible fuel vehicles that can use a variety of fuel types.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The term "dual fueled vehicle" is used in various legal contexts, particularly in environmental regulations and energy conservation laws. It is relevant in areas such as:

Environmental law, focusing on emissions and fuel efficiency.
Transportation law, addressing vehicle compliance and safety standards.
Energy regulations, promoting the use of alternative fuels to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Users may need to fill out specific forms or follow procedures related to the registration or operation of dual fueled vehicles, which can often be managed using templates available from US Legal Forms.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of dual fueled vehicles:

A pickup truck that can run on both compressed natural gas (CNG) and gasoline.
A flexible fuel vehicle that can use ethanol blends as well as regular gasoline. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

Key statutes related to dual fueled vehicles include:

10 CFR 490.2, which defines dual fueled vehicles and outlines criteria for compliance.
49 U.S.C. 32901, which provides definitions and regulations regarding alternative fuel vehicles.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State	Regulation Overview
California	Strict emissions standards and incentives for dual fueled vehicles.
Texas	Encourages the use of alternative fuels but has fewer restrictions than California.
New York	Offers tax credits for dual fueled vehicles, focusing on reducing emissions.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Differences
Flexible Fuel Vehicle	A vehicle that can run on multiple fuel types, primarily gasoline and ethanol.	All flexible fuel vehicles are dual fueled, but not all dual fueled vehicles are flexible fuel vehicles.
Alternative Fuel Vehicle	A vehicle that runs on fuels other than traditional gasoline or diesel.	Alternative fuel vehicles may not have the capability to use gasoline or diesel, unlike dual fueled vehicles.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you own or are considering purchasing a dual fueled vehicle, consider the following steps:

Research local regulations regarding emissions and fuel standards.
Explore available incentives or rebates for dual fueled vehicles in your state.
Review US Legal Forms for templates that can assist with registration or compliance documentation.
If you have complex questions, consult a legal professional for tailored advice.

Find the legal form that fits your case

Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.

This field is required

Quick facts

Typical fees: Varies by state for registration and compliance.
Jurisdiction: Federal and state regulations apply.
Possible penalties: Non-compliance with emissions standards may result in fines.