Building Bridges: Propane Vehicles Lead to the Future
I recently read an article entitled, “The Peak Oil Plateau is Close.” The author predicts that higher oil prices will spur the adoption of electric vehicles and alternative energy in transportation.
I couldn’t agree more.
Electric vehicles are perceived as “the future” of vehicle technology primarily due to the lack of tailpipe emissions. Since EVs are perceived as new technology, they are appealing for fleet operators who want to meet environmental mandates and reduce operational costs. The truth is that EVs in Class 4-7 trucks and buses won’t become mainstream for at least another seven to 10 years, as we need significant advancements in battery technology and cost to put it on par with diesel. Today, there are too many compromises in this class of vehicle, such as payload, range and total cost of ownership, that will hinder mass adoption.
There is no doubt that significant investments from a wide variety of sources will drive required innovation. But, in the interim, we must seek out other solutions that are more commercially viable.
Propane autogas is domestically produced making it immune to the likely rise and / or instability of oil prices. And, propane vehicle technology is much further along than EVs. During the past decade, liquid propane systems advancements, new calibration and catalyst innovations are taking these propane vehicles to near-zero emissions levels, making a strong case for adoption.
And we have the numbers — 20,000 propane vehicles in operation, more than 1,200 customers and over 1 billion miles accumulated. Interested fleets can tap into a robust database of experience to show how significant the cost savings and emission reductions will be for their organization.
Roush is investing heavily in both clean fuel technologies. We recommend that fleet operators look at all commercially available options before making a long-term decision. Solutions like propane autogas are “shovel ready” and can offer significant emissions and cost reductions today, while battery EV technology continues to mature.
As you prepare for the new year, please call us at 800.59.ROUSH to discuss alternative-fuel technology adoption for your organization. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.
I hope you enjoy the holiday season and see you in 2020!
