Propane Autogas Takes Off in Transportation Sectors
Dear Friends of ROUSH CleanTech,
Are alternative fuels like propane autogas here to stay? That was the most frequently asked question at last week’s Alternative Clean Technology (ACT) Expo, the largest clean fleet event of the year.
The answer is that they already are. Hundreds of alternative-fueled vehicles and technology suppliers filled the show floor. It is a testament that even in “good times” when diesel prices are low that fleet decision makers understand that this is a temporary state. It is not a matter of “if” diesel prices will rise, but “when” and how drastic that roller coaster ride will be.
Two major transportation markets where alternative fuels — propane specifically — have taken off and are becoming commonplace include:
- Student Transportation: There are more than 7,300 Blue Bird propane powered school buses on the road today in 46 states in more than 500 school districts. Due to the low cost of the fuel, the infrastructure and significantly reduced maintenance compared to diesel, it’s possible to start with one bus or switch an entire fleet of hundreds of buses. Between 2014 and 2015, we increased sales of our propane autogas fuel systems to the school bus industry by 9 percent, and in Q1 2016, we’ve already experienced an 11 percent increase in sales. With more than 60 million miles on these buses this is truly a proven solution.
- Public Transit: There are more than 700 propane autogas-fueled public paratransit vehicles in 34 markets nationwide and that number will exceed 850 by the end of 2016. Our transit clients are saving more than $5,000 per bus per year, which allows the agencies to provide a higher level of service to their customers while using this clean and domestic energy source.
Propane autogas has found its groove and alternative fuels are becoming more mainstream, especially in vehicle classes 4 to 7. Call us today at 800.59.ROUSH to learn how our team can help you prepare for the next significant increase in diesel.
Sincerely,
Todd Mouw
