What types of vehicles can use propane?
Propane can be used
in light and heavy-duty vehicles. According to the National
Renewable Energy Laboratory, in 1996 there were over 260,000 vehicles
running on propane in the US and over 400,000 in use around the world. Most
propane vehicles are currently duel-fuel, large trucks and vans, though
after-manufacture conversions for many vehicles are possible and original
equipment manufacturers are beginning to offer more factory-ready models.
Applications include cars, pick-up trucks, forklifts, transit and school
buses, delivery trucks, trolleys and vans.
How does propane perform?
Vehicles running on propane have the longest range of any alternative
fuel and only a slightly shorter range than gasoline and diesel vehicles.
Acceleration, cruise speed, payload, power and maintenance are comparable
to those of traditional-fuel vehicles. Propane is very stable at a large
range of temperatures, making it appropriate for use in varying climates,
and eliminating cold-start problems. Propane does require special safety
measures.
What are the benefits of using propane?
Propane has one-third less reactive organic gases than gasoline, but a
similar fuel range. Because propane can be stored as a liquid, a high amount
of energy can be stored in a relatively small space. Propane has been used
for over 60 years with an excellent safety record. It is a nontoxic fuel
that vaporizes when released from pressurized conditions so it poses no
risk to water or soil resources. It typically costs 5-30 percent less than
gasoline. Public fueling stations are more common than any other alternative
fuel. Filling time for vehicles is comparable with times for gasoline or
diesel fuels. Ninety percent of the propane consumed in the United States
is produced domestically. Propane vapors are 50% less reactive than gasoline
vapors so they have lower smog-forming tendencies. LPG reduces:
· Carbon dioxide by 11-13% compared to gasoline
· Nitrogen oxides by 15 - 80% compared to gasoline and 90 -99%
compared to diesel
· Hydrocarbons by 20- 40% compared to gasoline
· Carbon monoxide by 30- 35% compared to gasoline
· Particulates by 80-95% compared to diesel
· Ultra fine particles by 99% compared to diesel
· Noise by 50% compared to diesel engines
(Source: www.lpga.co.uk/LPGA.htm)
Where can I get propane?
In the Centralina Region propane is commercially available at the following
locations:
