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Safety features of Propane

Lowest flammability range of any fossil fuel

Fitted with safety devices and shut-off valves that function automatically should the fuel line rupture

Propane tanks, constructed from carbon steel and located between frame rails for added protection. 20 times more puncture resistant than conventional fuel tanks

Efficiency

Fully integrated system, designed in complete harmony with the OEM Engine (GM 8.1L) to ensure maximum efficiency

Delivers propane to the engine in a liquid form (as compared to vapor systems of the past) resulting in lower intake valve temperatures and denser air-fuel charges

More complete combustion

Performance

Produces 325 hp @ 4000 rpm; Torque of 450 lb. ft @ 2800 rpm

Most drivers report that Propane-Powered Vision exceeds performance expectations in terms of steep hill climbs, cold starts, passing gear, and quiet ride

Historical Use of Propane

Used as a commercial motor fuel for more than 80 years

More than 190,000 propane-powered vehicles in use in the United States; approximately 60,000 propane vehicles operating in Canada

The Denton Independent School District (Denton, TX) operates 139 school buses; 52% are propane fueled: 44 are the new blue Bird propane powered Visions purchased September 2008. They reported anannual fuel and maintenance savings of $692,900 in 2009 due to the use of propane.

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 (November 13, 2009) Topeka USD 501 took delivery of the first propane school bus in Kansas today. With increased emission standards and tighter school budgets a propane school bus can save a district as much as $1,400 a year in annual fuel costs; and, for the first time, the purchase entry point between a propane powered school bus and a 2010 emission compliant diesel engine is less than $2,000.

The 77-passenger bus initial cost Topeka USD 501 about $9,000 more than if the district had opted to purchase a conventional diesel powered school bus. But over the expected 20-year life of the school bus, Topeka USD 501 can expect to save $28,000 in fuel costs due to a 50 cents/gallon Federal Excise Tax Credit.

The purchase entry points between the propane powered and diesel powered bus are closing. A 77-passenger bus with a 2010 diesel emission compliant engine would cost virtually the same today as a propane school bus, according to Brian Linnens, sales manager, Kansas Truck Equipment Co. Stringent 2010 emission standards have added approximately $8,000 to the initial cost of a diesel powered school bus.

According to Linnens, Kansas school transportation directors have two major reservations concerning the propane bus: the availability of propane fuel and refueling stations; and, the uncertainty of propane engine maintenance.

"The propane distribution system in Kansas is much better than it was even a year ago. Most major truck stops have propane refueling stations which are open 24/7," said Linnens. "In addition, almost any supplier which services agriculture and recreation vehicles has propane." Linnens added that propane suppliers are aware of the school opporutunity and are willing to set up propane tanks on lease arrangements for the school districts at almost no cost.

Jason Jackson, shop foreman, Kansas Truck Equipment Company, said he thinks many school bus mechanics are wary of the unknown. "They don't have as much or any experience with the propane fuel system. In my opinion, what they'll find with this injection style propane fuel system is virtually a maintenance-free system. Maintenance intervals of the engine will be the same for a propane engine as a diesel engine."

Linnens said one of the big advantages to Kansas school districts is the savings they'll experience in fuel costs. Districts are eligible for a 50 cents per gallon federal tax credit with propane which makes the net cost of propane about $1.21/gallon vs. $2.75/gallon for diesel. (November 9, 2009 pricing)