As an expert in the field of automotive engineering and energy sources, I can provide a comprehensive overview of the types of fuel used in vehicles.

Gasoline is a petroleum-derived fuel that is widely used in internal combustion engines (ICEs) of passenger cars, motorcycles, and light-duty vehicles. It is a hydrocarbon blend that is refined from crude oil and is known for its high energy content and ease of combustion. Gasoline engines are spark-ignition engines, which means that they use a spark plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture.

Diesel, another petroleum product, is also extensively used in ICEs, particularly in heavy-duty vehicles, buses, and some passenger cars. Diesel fuel is heavier and has a higher energy content per gallon than gasoline. Diesel engines are compression-ignition engines, which means they do not use a spark plug; instead, the high pressure and temperature from the compression of air ignite the fuel.

Ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel that can be used as a blend with gasoline or in its pure form (E100). It is produced from biomass sources such as corn, sugarcane, and other crops. Ethanol-blended fuels, such as E10 (10% ethanol, 90% gasoline) and E15 (15% ethanol, 85% gasoline), are common in many countries.

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking grease. It can be used in diesel engines without modification or blended with diesel fuel. Biodiesel is considered environmentally friendly due to its biodegradability and potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Propane (C3H8), also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), is a gas at room temperature that is compressed and stored as a liquid. It is used in some vehicles, particularly in fleet applications and as an alternative fuel for light-duty vehicles.

Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a cleaner-burning alternative to gasoline and diesel. It is primarily used in fleet vehicles, buses, and some passenger cars. CNG is stored in high-pressure tanks and offers a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional fossil fuels.

Electricity is not a fuel in the traditional sense but is used to power electric vehicles (EVs). EVs have batteries that are charged from an external source, such as the electrical grid or renewable energy sources. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their zero tailpipe emissions and potential for lower operating costs.

Hydrogen is an emerging fuel for vehicles, particularly in the form of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Hydrogen is stored in high-pressure tanks and used in fuel cells to generate electricity, which then powers the vehicle's electric motor. It offers a zero-emission driving experience and the potential for quick refueling times.

In conclusion, the choice of fuel for vehicles depends on various factors including availability, cost, efficiency, environmental impact, and infrastructure support. The automotive industry is continuously evolving, with a growing trend towards more sustainable and cleaner energy sources.

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A motor fuel is a fuel that is used to provide power to motor vehicles. Currently, the majority of motor vehicles worldwide are powered by gasoline or diesel. Other energy sources include ethanol, biodiesel, propane, compressed natural gas (CNG), electric batteries charged from an external source, and hydrogen.read more >>