American Honda Motor Co., Inc., which markets the Civic GX natural gas vehicle, has purchased a 20 percent interest in FuelMaker Corporation, a privately held Toronto-based company and the leading manufacturer of natural gas vehicle refueling appliances, the companies have announced. In addition, Honda R&D Americas, Inc., will provide market researech information to assist FuelMaker's efforts in developing an inexpensive, advanced technology, home refueling appliance for natural gas vehicles. This new product will allow natural gas powered vehicles to be conveniently refueled from a homeowner's natural gas line, in addition to refueling at public stations. "Natural gas offers many advantages and opportunities as an alternative to gasoline," said Tom Elliott, American Honda executive vice president. "Substantial supplies of natural gas exist in North America and there are significant environmental benefits. The biggest challenge the industry faces is developing an infrastructure that provides customers with improved access." Currently, natural gas powered vehicles are primarily purchased by corporate and government fleets that buy alternative fuel vehicles to meet Energy Policy Act goals. These organizations typically maintain their own refueling facilities. Honda has been selling the natural gas powered Civic GX since 1997. The EPA has referred to the GX as being the "cleanest internal combustion engine vehicle in the world." The Civic GX also has earned a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) rating and produces almost zero emissions. The new 2001 Civic GX offers increased range, fuel economy and greater interior and trunk space. It is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for responsive performance and fuel efficiency. "Advanced technology vehicles like the CNG Civic GX face the 'chicken and egg' infrastructure challenge," Elliott said. "Without more vehicles on the road, the infrastructure won't grow. But without an expanded infrastructure, vehicle demand remains limited. "Our research and marketing experience with the Civic GX indicates consumers like the idea of being able to refuel their vehicle at home," Elliott said. "As natural gas lines already supply most homes and businesses, the availability of an affordable home refueling system will expand the potential for alternative fuel vehicles."