The needs and opportunities in the heavy-duty alternative fuel vehicle training arena were examined in an informal ethnographic study of the appropriateness and effectiveness of the instructional materials currently being used in such training. Interviews were conducted with eight instructors from the National Alternative Fuels Training Program (which is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and administered by West Virginia University) and two training participants (individuals from the heavy-duty vehicle mobile emissions laboratory). It was concluded that material developed for heavy-duty alternative fuel vehicle training programs should accomplish the following: act as preparation for manufacturers' training by including universal instruction in the basic limitations of the systems being worked on and technicians' abilities; focus on common causes of vehicular operating problems, basic timing functions, and requirements for proper fuel distribution; be based on a hands-on training approach; include open-ended learning components; focus on the basic components for emissions; the influences of various engine sensors and adjustments on emissions; adjustments to the emission system that would provide the most efficient power settings; the preventive maintenance function of technicians in the field; and the cost benefits of different engine configurations. (Includes interview questions and a list of participants). (MN)