What is a typical characteristic of CNG vehicles' range compared to gasoline vehicles?

CNG vehicles often have a shorter range compared to gasoline vehicles primarily due to the lower energy density of compressed natural gas. Energy density refers to the amount of energy a fuel contains in a given volume. Gasoline has a higher energy density than CNG, meaning that vehicles running on gasoline can travel further on the same size fuel tank.

Additionally, CNG requires larger tanks for storage because it needs to be compressed to a high pressure, which can take up more space in the vehicle compared to a conventional gasoline tank. As a result, even though CNG is a cleaner alternative with some operational advantages, the design and physical characteristics of CNG systems often result in a reduced driving range when compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.

This understanding is crucial for consumers and businesses considering alternative fuel options, as range limitations can impact vehicle selection and usage strategies.