NHTSAProposed Rule

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards: No. 303; Fuel System Integrity of Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles

TransportationEnergyEnvironment

Summary

The federal government is proposing new safety rules to make sure compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles—cars and trucks that run on natural gas instead of gasoline—have fuel systems that won't leak or break in accidents. These rules are designed to protect drivers and passengers from dangerous gas leaks and explosions.

Key Points

  • 1This rule sets safety standards for the fuel tanks and pipes in vehicles that use compressed natural gas, ensuring they can withstand crashes and normal wear without leaking
  • 2The regulation applies to manufacturers of CNG vehicles and affects new cars and trucks sold in the United States
  • 3The public has until July 30, 2025, to submit comments on this proposed rule before the government makes a final decision
  • 4These safety requirements could reduce the risk of fires and explosions caused by fuel system failures in CNG vehicles
  • 5Manufacturers may need to redesign or upgrade their CNG fuel systems to meet the new safety standards

Impact Assessment

If you are a vehicle manufacturer, you must redesign and test CNG fuel systems to meet new safety standards before selling vehicles, increasing production costs and development timelines.

Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope

National

Compliance Cost

Significant

Who is Affected
ManufacturersTransportation CompaniesConsumersWorkers/Laborers

Key Dates

Published

May 30, 2025

Comment Deadline

July 30, 2025

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Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
49 CFR Part 571

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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