Natural Gas Systems: Suggested Changes to Truck and Motorcoach Regulations and Inspection Procedures

MJB&A conducted a review of safety-related codes, standards, and best practices to facilitate the use of natural gas (compressed or liquefied) as an alternative to traditional fuels in commercial vehicles.  The report was prepared for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).  Current FMCSA regulations are targeted primarily toward liquid-fueled vehicles. They address the unique characteristics of gaseous-fueled vehicles in a very limited way and fail to address cryogenic fuels. The purpose of this project was to identify changes to the current regulations, if any, that would specifically and fully address the unique characteristics of natural gas used as a fuel and serve to improve the overall safety of commercial vehicle operations by ensuring that commercial vehicles powered by natural gas meet appropriate safety criteria at all times while operating on public roads.