Modern WorkTruck Solutions December 2024 - 13

Mobile Refueling: Fleets with limited space can customize
an on-site refueling plan with a propane supplier utilizing a
propane delivery truck.
Public and Private Refueling Networks: There are
more than 2,000 public and private refueling stations in
the U.S. that offer convenient, 24/7 access to propane
autogas. These networks often utilize a card lock system
that tracks fuel usage and costs per vehicle, providing added
convenience for fleet managers.
The quoted range includes installation labor costs, making it
easier for fleet owners to budget for the transition.
WHAT COST SAVINGS CAN BE EXPECTED?
One of the most immediate benefits fleet owners notice after
switching to propane autogas is the significant reduction in
fuel costs. On average, costs can be up to 50 percent less
than gasoline or diesel. This substantial difference in fuel
prices can lead to significant savings over time.
Additionally, propane autogas engines have lower
maintenance costs compared to diesel engines. Since
propane is a cleaner fuel, it doesn't require the expensive
exhaust after-treatment systems that diesel engines need to
comply with emission standards. Moreover, propane autogas
won't degrade or prematurely wear down engine parts over
time. When properly maintained, propane autogas vehicles
tend to experience fewer issues with carbon buildup and
contaminants, resulting in a longer vehicle lifespan and
reduced maintenance expenses.
HOW DO FLEETS REFUEL AFTER CONVERSION?
After transitioning to propane autogas, fleets have several
options for refueling:
Private Station: Most fleet owners choose to build
their own private station in a central location for quick and
convenient refueling. Private stations include a properly-sized
propane storage tank and one or more dispensers. A propane
supplier can work with fleet owners to determine the right
size tank for each fleet owner's operation.
Private stations are completely customizable to meet
business demands and can easily scale as the fleet expands.
In some cases, a propane supplier will provide the refueling
infrastructure at little to no cost in exchange for a mutually
beneficial fuel contract that locks in propane autogas for a
set price over a period of time.
Temporary Refueling: Propane suppliers may offer
temporary refueling solutions, such as a portable fuel storage
tank and dispenser mounted on a trailer. This option is
perfect for short-term needs or extended use at job sites,
allowing for flexibility.
HOW EXPENSIVE WILL IT BE TO MAINTAIN VEHICLES
AFTER CONVERSION?
In general, maintaining a propane autogas engine is more
cost effective and straightforward than maintaining a diesel
engine. Propane is a clean energy source, which eliminates
the need for the additional fluids and filters that diesel
engines require. Propane autogas systems also require less
oil by volume compared to diesel engines, leading to lower
preventive maintenance costs over the vehicle's lifespan.
WHAT IF SERVICE TECHNICIANS AND FACILITIES ARE
NEW TO PROPANE AUTOGAS?
New propane engines share many similarities with gasoline
engines, and they require similar equipment for maintenance,
diagnosis, and repair, which reduces the learning curve for
drivers and technicians.
In most cases, existing maintenance and garage facilities
will not require costly infrastructure upgrades to service
propane autogas vehicles either. In fact, if existing buildings
are code compliant for diesel and gasoline, typically there
are no major modifications required for the maintenance and
repair of propane autogas vehicles.
Ventilation may be required if the facility is equipped
with a pit used for maintenance, under vehicle inspections,
and repairs. Facility managers should always check with
their local Authority Having Jurisdiction to define the code
requirements, if any, for ventilation, gas detection, sources of
ignition, and electrical requirements.
Fleet owners should seriously consider the advantages
of propane autogas for their fleets as a safe and viable
alternative to traditional fuels. With substantial cost
savings, reduced emissions, and flexible refueling options,
transitioning to propane autogas can enhance a fleet's
operational efficiency while advancing emissions goals.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bridget Kidd is COO for the Propane Education
and Research Council. She can be reached at
bridget.kidd@propane.com. To learn more about
propane autogas vehicles, visit www.propane.com.
DECEMBER 2024 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS
13
http://www.propane.com http://WWW.MWSMAG.COM
Modern WorkTruck Solutions December 2024

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