How Does It Run On Natural Gas?
A viral TikTok by creator Summer (@summerwinterfallorspring) highlights the infrastructure challenges of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles, specifically the Honda Civic GX. Despite lower fuel costs, the U.S. Department of Energy reported only 700 public CNG stations nationwide as of 2023, limiting long-distance travel for owners.
Why is CNG infrastructure so limited in the U.S.?
CNG infrastructure remains sparse because the cost of building specialized high-pressure fueling stations is high and consumer demand is low. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, there were only 700 public CNG stations across the country as of 2023. This creates a “fueling desert” for many drivers.
The lack of stations restricts vehicle utility. Summer reported in her video that she cannot leave Southern California or go on road trips because she is tethered to a handful of compatible pumps. While some users in states like Oklahoma claim to have local access, Summer noted that relying on only two stations is “stressful” if one goes out of service.
How does the Honda Civic GX compare to traditional gas cars?
The Honda Civic GX offers lower emissions and different fueling costs, but it trades convenience for those gains. Car and Driver reports that Honda introduced the Civic GX in 2007 as a cleaner energy alternative. However, the vehicle was more expensive than the standard gasoline model from the start.
Fueling costs can be lower, but the frequency of fill-ups may increase. In her TikTok, Summer showed a total cost of $19.06 for the equivalent of 3.466 gallons. Despite the low per-fill price, she told viewers she has to fill up multiple times per week, offsetting some of the financial benefits.
CNG vs. Gasoline: A Quick Look
| Feature | Honda Civic GX (CNG) | Standard Civic (Gas) |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Access | ~700 stations (DOE) | Ubiquitous |
| Initial Cost | Higher (Car and Driver) | Standard |
| Environmental Impact | Lower Emissions | Higher Emissions |
What is the future of natural gas vehicles?
CNG vehicles are increasingly viewed as a niche or “anomaly” in the commercial market, according to Car and Driver. While Honda revived the concept in 2012, the rise of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) has shifted investment away from methane-based passenger cars.
The “hassle” described by Summer—the inability to travel outside specific regions—is a primary driver of this decline. Most current CNG adoption has shifted toward heavy-duty fleets and municipal buses, where fueling infrastructure can be centralized at a single depot, eliminating the need for a massive public network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CNG stand for?
CNG stands for Compressed Natural Gas. It is methane stored at high pressure.
Is the Honda Civic GX still in production?
It remains an anomaly in the market. While introduced in 2007 and revived in 2012, it is not a primary offering in the current Honda lineup.
Are CNG cars cheaper to run?
Often yes, but the savings are frequently offset by the limited number of fueling stations and the potential for more frequent fill-ups.
Do you think CNG is a viable alternative to EVs, or is it a dead-end technology? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more automotive deep dives.