2015 Bi-Fuel Impala (Rifle Round Tested, Bonfire Approved)

General Motors is adding the 2015 Bi-Fuel Impala to their alternative fuel vehicle lineup.  As a Bi-Fuel, this vehicle will run off of gas and CNG. We are not kidding when we say Rifle Round Tested, Bonfire Approved.

The vehicle’s CNG tank is covered by a large piece of cast aluminum that also protects connection points from certain side impacts. Sheet metal plates on either side of the tank help protect it from loose objects in the trunk or rear seat, according to GM.

To ensure the peace of mind and safety of consumers regarding compressed gas vehicles, Chevrolet implemented the following thorough and numerous tests.

General Motors has subjected the compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel tank of its 2015 Bi-fuel Chevrolet Impala to several extreme tests, including the “bonfire test,” penetration test with an armor-piercing rifle round, and impact testing.  The bonfire test subjects the tank to a steady 800-degree Fahrenheit fire to confirm that the CNG tank’s pressure relief valves remain operation and the tank won’t rupture. The tests are done at two fuel levels. The penetration test involves engineers filling the tank to its service pressure. The tank is then shot with a 7.62 mm rifle round. The 7.62×51 mm NATO round travels at a velocity of more than 2,500 feet per second.