ILLINOIS — Ameren Illinois has introduced a “gas sniffing” car that can quickly identify methane emissions and pinpoint the source of potential leaks.

Officials said the “gas sniffer” works by deploying a high-tech analyzer on the rear of a hybrid electric car. As the car drives through city streets, it detects the presence of methane.

Ameren Illinois crews then use GPS coordinates to pinpoint the location and mobilize response units.