Roush Performance is launching the next phase of its liquid propane-injected vehicles with a line of Ford E-Series van conversions. The Ford E-Series was selected, according to Roush, because of Ford’s leadership role in the van segment and because fleet managers are familiar with the E-Series ordering process, cost of ownership and maintenance schedules.
Roush plans to offer propane-fueled E-150, E-250 and E-350 units beginning in the first quarter of 2010, with conversions available for both passenger and cargo van applications.
“The response from the fleets to our line of F-150, F-250 and F-350 propane pickups and conversion kits has been outstanding,” said Jack Roush, “and their feedback inspired us to develop the complete line of E-Series vans. Many of the fleet managers we have spoken with utilize a tremendous number of vans in the course of their daily business, and were looking for the type of cost and environmental advantages that propane offers as a motor fuel. Their desire is what motivated Roush to continue to add to our line of propane vehicles.”
The conversion system is designed for the Ford 5.4L, V-8 engine found in 2009 and newer vans, including the gaseous prep engine. According to the company, the Roush propane-fueled E-Series vans will achieve Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) II emission standards; on average a SULEV vehicle produces 90% fewer regulated emissions than an average new model year car or truck.
As with other Roush propane-fueled vehicles, the E-Series vans will be covered by a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty. Dealers may order the conversion on a ship-through basis to help reduce transportation costs, or conversion systems can be ordered and installed through any authorized Ford dealership for vehicles already in operation.
Roush noted that propane is already the third most widely used fuel worldwide, following gasoline and diesel. Propane also qualifies as an “alternative fuel,” eligible for a variety of federal, state and municipal tax credits or rebates. U.S. supplies of propane are also almost entirely domestically produced.
