Propane Autogas Powers Fleets Cleanly and Affordably

Propane autogas 2,000 gallon tank

Fleet managers are transitioning from diesel-powered to propane-powered fleets in order to significantly reduce CO² emissions in their fleets. Many school districts in particular are choosing propane for a clean and affordable way to power their vehicles. Switching to propane can also improve a bus driver’s experience, help with employee engagement, and make things easier for a district’s transportation director.

Propane autogas is a low-emissions motor fuel that runs quietly. Better yet, it’s more versatile and affordable when compared to diesel. Most vehicles that run on gasoline can also run on autogas with the right conversion kit, though the industry focuses on fleet vehicles that are high in demand, such as trucks and buses. The price of propane is consistently lower than diesel, and you can calculate the savings from switching to autogas through an online calculator. Lastly, thanks to the Clean School Bus Grant, more school districts are able to afford autogas buses, which are eligible for up to $35,000 in grant money per bus.

Although there is a push to change school fleets to all-electric, the lack of affordability and burden of infrastructure costs makes propane a more viable choice. In upfront costs alone, setting up 10 electric vehicles would cost more than eight times a comparable setup of 10 autogas vehicles. Additionally, electric vehicles can only go about 120 miles before requiring a new charge. In comparison, autogas shuttles can go up to 400 miles before needing another fill.

Besides the low cost, switching to autogas can have a positive impact on the environment and personal health. Diesel exhaust puts toxic pollutants into the air that can cause asthma and even lung cancer. This can be especially harmful to young children who ride on school buses throughout the year. In contrast, propane is an approved clean energy source under the Clean Air Act and does not contaminate air, water, or soil resources. One study even showed that propane cuts 96 percent of emissions compared to clean diesel buses.

With the many benefits that autogas provides, it is clear why more fleets are making the switch. Want to find out your options with Ferrellgas for a propane-powered fleet? See our website for more information.