Columbia University's Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Assists Volvo in Alternative Fuel Research

4 November 1997

    ROCKLEIGH, N.J., Nov. 4 -- On Tuesday, October 28, Lamont-
Doherty Earth Observatory of Columbia University officially joined Volvo Cars
of North America, Inc. in an alternative fuel research program.
    Dr. John C. Mutter, Deputy Director of the Observatory, accepted the keys
to a prototype Volvo 850 wagon which runs on two types of fuel: gasoline and
compressed natural gas (CNG).  The car contains two separate fuel tanks and is
equipped with a switch near the gear shift which allows the driver to change
from one type of fuel to the other even while the car is in motion.  Dr.
Mutter will test drive the car for six weeks and report back to Volvo.
    Dr. Mutter explains, "Here at Lamont-Doherty, we conduct research into the
future of the earth's climate systems as influenced by human actions, and
hence have an interest in strategies for reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
and atmospheric contaminants."
    Compressed natural gas is proven to burn cleaner with less environmental
pollution than gasoline.  According to the American Gas Association, "Vehicles
fueled with natural gas can reduce, by 85 to 90 percent, emissions of carbon
monoxide and reactive hydrocarbons that contribute to smog.  Natural gas
vehicles also reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, the principle 'greenhouse'
gas, by 32 percent.  CNG also emits virtually no particulate matter, which can
harm humans' respiratory and cardiovascular systems and can cause visibility
impairment."
    Because of the availability of CNG here in North America, increased use of
the fuel can also help reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil.

SOURCE  Volvo Cars of North America, Inc.