By: Todd Mouw, President
California’s drive toward carbon neutrality is a hot button topic in the state. Last fall, former Governor Jerry Brown unveiled an ambitious climate goal to put California on the path to be carbon neutral, including transportation. The Executive Order lists one specific way is by “Supporting clean transportation to reduce petroleum use 45 percent by 2030.”
Propane autogas is a “shovel ready” solution. Now available in all states, it answers both the economic and environmental sustainability goals public and private fleets are craving.
Propane autogas is economical. On average, propane autogas costs 40 to 50 percent less than diesel. Operating on propane removes the complexity and cost of after-treatment measures. Eliminating these measures accelerates return on investment and cuts operating costs. In addition to engine oil benefits, there is no need for exhaust after-treatment or diesel emissions fluids; particulate trap systems; turbochargers and intercoolers; additional filters, fluids, etc. There is also funding available to significantly reduce vehicle acquisition costs.
Propane autogas is clean. According to a University of California Riverside study, diesel-fueled medium- and heavy-duty vehicles are the primary source of NOx emissions in almost every single metropolitan region in the U.S. Medium- and heavy-duty vehicles fueled by propane autogas emit fewer greenhouse gases and smog-producing hydrocarbons than diesel-powered medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
ROUSH CleanTech’s 0.02 ultra-low NOx propane engine combined with renewable propane decreases the carbon intensity that aligns with California’s vision of carbon neutrality. And, the new governor seems to be supportive of Brown’s climate initiative.
To learn more about ROUSH CleanTech’s alternative-fuel vehicle technology that powers school buses and Ford commercial vehicles, please visit www.roushcleantech.com.