Natural gas is mainly methane, the simplest and cleanest burning hydrocarbon. It has a high octane rating as a vehicle fuel. Already many major transport users such as city bus fleets are introducing clean and efficient natural gas buses. As a vehicle fuel, natural gas has many advantages over petrol and diesel. Cars running on natural gas are estimated to emit 20 percent less greenhouse gases.
Buses fuelled by natural gas are much quieter than diesel buses because they use spark ignition.
Toxic emissions from NGVs of carbon monoxide, lead, particulates, benzene and sulphur compounds are negligible or nonexistent. Australia's reserves of natural gas, excluding coal seam methane, are sufficient to last 91 years at current production levels. In contrast, our crude oil reserves are sufficient to last about 39 years at the current production levels. Substituting natural gas for petroleum fuels will reduce Australia's reliance on imported products and improve our balance of payments. More Advantages of NGVs Natural gas is inexpensive and convenient.