Since gas prices continue to rise to all-time highs and more Americans cry for reduced dependency on foreign oil, vehicle manufacturers have begun to address consumers' desire for an alternative fuel vehicle (AFV). A variety of vehicle makes and models have been redesigned as an alternative fuel vehicle and are now obtainable. The 2007 manufacturing year includes alternative fuel sedans, trucks, mini-vans and sports utility vehicles, with more makes and models slated to approach. With new government issued tax breaks acting as incentives for consumers to purchase an alternative fuel vehicle, AFVs are gaining more concentration than ever before.

An alternative fuel vehicle is defined as any vehicle designed to operate on at least one form of alternative fuel, or a fuel source not derivative from petroleum. There are flexible fuel vehicles and dual fuel vehicles presently in manufacturing status, along with hybrid electric engines and biodiesel engines. The most general alternative fuel vehicle in the United States is the flexible fuel vehicle (FFV).

Flexible fuel vehicles are intended to run on both gasoline and E85, an ethanol fuel. The engine can alternate between the two, allowing the driver control over the type of fuel used, along with the ability to fuel the vehicle when alternative fuel is engaged. More and more filling stations are adding E85 pumps to their stations, but a great many have yet to convert any offered pumps, making it sometimes difficult to find the fuel when needed. Most manufacturers, counting Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, and Chrysler, make flex-fuel vehicles that look just like the gasoline only versions, but have the necessary engine, fuel lines, and other components to work with E85 fuel.