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G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - www.CheersandGears.com Tesla has set the auto world on fire with their sedan and now their Tesla X CUV. While most of us cannot afford a $100,000 dollar plus auto, what about our older auto's? Does it make sense to convert a traditional gas powered auto to an EV? Should I wait till a lower priced EV arrives like the Chevy Bolt? Many states have come out strong in their support for CNG home and business fueling equipment such as Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, and Texas. Other states have come out strong pushing to having people go electric and add electric chargers to your home such as Washington and Oregon. One large state pushing CNG, Electric and Hydrogen, is California. The average conversion on a petrol powered auto to CNG tends to run $10K to $15K depending on the size of the CNG tank and then you have fueling equipment if you want to fuel from home that runs from $5K to $10K depending on size. This means an average person converting an auto to CNG is looking at $15K to $25K price and can be even more if you buy a new CNG auto. You have many choices in the EV field such as the Nissan Leaf, Chevy Spark EV, Fiat 500 EV and a few others that all run in the 60 to 80 mile range of electric auto's. The upcoming Chevy Bolt is a 200 mile range EV which many feel will make an impact on autos sales. These are the EV's that are all in the $25K to $35K range depending on federal subsidies. So with thinking about the current EV's on the market and what is coming, does it make sense to convert an existing auto to electric? What is the cost of conversion and what are my options as I hear about AC versus DC driven autos? What should I have at my home to charge the auto? This is what I took as I thought about my own auto's I own and realizing that a big 6'6" 280lb man who drives full size SUV's, GMC Suburban and Escalade, finds it hard to find a greener solution in the full size SUV arena. As such, I choose to research what it would cost to convert my 1994 GMC SLE Suburban which has a modified 402 V8 500HP, 551lbs of Torque engine that requires Premium fuel or CNG to drive. In researching this I found that there are many pros and cons of AC versus DC motors. AC or alternating current electric motors and DC or Direct current electric motors are both able to achieve the job of moving an auto but are engineered a bit differently. DC current will not work with an AC motor nor will a AC current work with a DC motor. AC motors are divided into single phase and three phase motors. Single phase AC is what you typically find in a home, triple phase is commonly found in factory or commercial space, but can also be installed at a home. Today OEM auto makers are mostly using AC motors. DC motors also find themselves split into three types, brush motors, brushless motors and stepper motors. Brushed DC motors as found on Golf carts and many other small electric driven carts are easy to build and cost effective but their large drawback is that the carbon brushes used to transfer electrical current wear over time and eventually end in motor failure. Stepper motors are a brushless DC motor most commonly found in robotics/ automation. Not something you would use in an auto. The DC brushless motor eliminates brushes, is more costly to build and requires a complicated electronics system to operate but has long life and is usually what you find in EV's either converted or OEM built for the auto industry. So now that we know what the difference is between AC and DC motors, what are the advantages and disadvantages of these motors? Advantages of DC (Direct Current) motors are as follows: 1) Provide excellent speed control for acceleration and deceleration. 2) Easy to understand and design. 3) Inexpensive drive design. Disadvantages of DC motors are as follows: 1) High maintenance 2) Vulnerable to dust which decreases performance Advantages of AC (Alternating Current) motors are as follows: 1) Low cost due to simple design of the motor. 2) Generally smaller form factor. 3) Reliable operation, due to low maintenance, very rugged. Disadvantages of AC motors are as follows: 1) Low speed challenges 2) Back EMF (electromotive force) issues. This is where current in the loop of the motor that slows down the motor and has to be overcome. With all the advantages and disadvantages there are some situations that still demand a DC motor or a high performance AC motor. For long life and performance cooling is a requirement. This requires a premium efficient or energy efficient motor with proper air or liquid cooling. So knowing what I have in my suburban and wanting to keep it as true as possible as an auto that has its heaters, AC and the rest of the electronics ended up leaving me with the following parts list. EV Conversion Part List and Cost as supplied by www.electriccarpartscompany.com. This is a parts list with cost not including shipping or installation. 2 - Warp11 72-156v 453amp DC Motors will cost $5810.00 1 - Dual Motor Siamese adapter for Warp11 motors will cost $599.00 1-Air Conditioner Compressor will cost $864.00 1-Electric Power Steering Pump kit will cost $985.00 2-1000amp Zilla Motor controller will cost $3717.00 1-PB2 Pot Box Throttle will cost $99.00 1-Motor Adapter Plate and Spacer Ring will cost $450.00 1-Interconnecting Hub will cost $365.00 1-55amp DC-DC converter will cost $124.00 1-500A Fuse will cost $65.00 1-Fuse Holder will cost $65.00 1-12v 500amp contactor will cost $72.00 1-Inertia Switch will cost $57.00 1-Amp/Voltage meter with 500amp shunt will cost $108.00 1-QET 2000 watt 144v model P charger will cost $603.00 1 - 250V, 10-30A Locking Plugs, sockets, inlets & Bezel - $105.00 1-Orion BMS configured for 48 cells will cost $1131.00 Part Cost $15,219 which gives me an EV motor solution of 1000lbs of torque with near identical HP. 90 mile battery pack 48 -180Ah Calb CA180FI cells with bus bars, bolts and washers will cost $11,448.00 200 mile battery pack 48 - 400Ah LiFePo4 Lithium Prismatic cells with bus bars, bolts and washers will cost $28,032.00 90 Mile Solution Installation cost approximately $20,000.00 Part Cost approximately $15,219.00 90 mile battery pack $11,448.00 Total Cost $46,667.00 200 Mile Solution Installation cost approximately $20,000.00 Part Cost approximately $15,219.00 200 mile battery pack $28,032.00 Total Cost $63,032.00 With an overview of AC versus DC motors and having researched the installation, parts and battery pack, I have two options, a $47K 90 mile option or a $63K 200 mile option. Knowing that a new Suburban can run from $40K to $75K dollars, which makes sense? Buy a new petrol suburban or rebuild my existing Suburban to be EV? I think this really comes down to a personal choice as you have to decide if your old auto is worth more to refit as an EV or stay with petrol and drive a new one. Personally, I am leaning towards the EV conversion as my 94 GMC SLE Suburban is in mint condition, paid for and the cost of conversion would give me a 30Amp quick charging solution that long term would end up paying for itself I believe. In the end if you are interested in converting your auto to electric, you have a number of choices. The following web sites offer a complete catalog of parts for those that want to engineer the complete solution. They also offer Conversion kits that cover many popular cars and trucks. Which is right for you, can only be decided by your own choice of what you want to accomplish. http://www.electric-cars-are-for-girls.com/electric-car-conversion-kit.html http://www.evwest.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=40&osCsid=ve0hk6f1hpvnt5mk78pvuqosk2 http://www.electriccarpartscompany.com/ The final alternative is a new Hybrid Suburban offered by VIA Motors. Pure electric for 40 miles, then gas kicks in to balance and you end up with a 24mpg suburban but at a starting price of $79,000. Via motors web site is here: http://www.viamotors.com/ TopSpeed review is here: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/others/2013-via-vtrux-suburban-ar133014.html View full article
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By G. David Felt Be for or against EV autos one cannot help but acknowledge that they are here to stay. California has long been one to push the industry in one direction or another. With change often came some interesting observations such as Tesla who has been funded and helped by government grants and yet for being in a state that pushed auto companies to build EV autos they lack a solid growing infrastructure for the Electric Highway in comparison to other states. Electric Highway Map Washington & Oregon Electric Highway Map California While Tesla has done wonders for pushing their own charging stations, what about support for non-Tesla EVs? This is where a quick study of the Electric Highway Map shows that Oregon and Washington State has surpassed California for making much of the state and the major highway usable for electric road trips. The map shows an easy to understand network of charge points for going on an EV road trip. I-5 is essentially the backbone of the EV highway on the west coast with the map showing the various supported state and federal highways with charging locations and type. California, while focused on San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego loves to show off that they have an electric system, much of it is still in a planned stage leaving really only Tesla with a solution of getting around long distance. The focus of the West Coast Green Highway project which is funded by Federal, state, city and business dollars is to give “Range Confidence” to those that choose to purchase an EV auto. This project is an extension of the Federal’s current and long-running EV Project which was funded in August 2009 and covers 9 states with chargers installed in Major cities and Metropolitan areas. The Chevrolet Volt and Nissan LEAF are partners in this long running project. Owners of these autos could apply and those that qualify could get a free residential charger at no cost. As of March 11 2013, the EV Project had met it currently funded goal for residential charging units and is no longer accepting applications. EV Drivers can still sign up and join in the monitoring project of the public charging units to help better understand the use, need, and type of chargers. Click to Enlarge Map via WestCoastGreenHighway.com The layout of charging stations show that most are 20 to 30 miles apart with some being 50 to 60 miles apart which would require one to carefully and efficiently plan their driving. The one item that this map does not show is topography. The Pacific Northwest is a mountainous area that is also home to strong winds of which both can and do affect range of these autos. Fortunately many will find that the West Coast Green Highway site covers all of North America with alternative Fueling station locators. The Electric Highway is a part of a broader effort by the Department of Transportation for Washington, Oregon, and California to expand the use of Natural Gas, Biodiesel, Ethanol, and Hydrogen options along the 1,350 miles of I-5 from the US border with Canada to the US border with Mexico. In a drive for those that wish to help reduce greenhouse gas, clean up the air we breathe and give mother earth a break, the West Coast Green Highway project is a solid step in the right direction supporting many alternative transportation fueling options. View full article
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By G. David Felt Be for or against EV autos one cannot help but acknowledge that they are here to stay. California has long been one to push the industry in one direction or another. With change often came some interesting observations such as Tesla who has been funded and helped by government grants and yet for being in a state that pushed auto companies to build EV autos they lack a solid growing infrastructure for the Electric Highway in comparison to other states. Electric Highway Map Washington & Oregon Electric Highway Map California While Tesla has done wonders for pushing their own charging stations, what about support for non-Tesla EVs? This is where a quick study of the Electric Highway Map shows that Oregon and Washington State has surpassed California for making much of the state and the major highway usable for electric road trips. The map shows an easy to understand network of charge points for going on an EV road trip. I-5 is essentially the backbone of the EV highway on the west coast with the map showing the various supported state and federal highways with charging locations and type. California, while focused on San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego loves to show off that they have an electric system, much of it is still in a planned stage leaving really only Tesla with a solution of getting around long distance. The focus of the West Coast Green Highway project which is funded by Federal, state, city and business dollars is to give “Range Confidence” to those that choose to purchase an EV auto. This project is an extension of the Federal’s current and long-running EV Project which was funded in August 2009 and covers 9 states with chargers installed in Major cities and Metropolitan areas. The Chevrolet Volt and Nissan LEAF are partners in this long running project. Owners of these autos could apply and those that qualify could get a free residential charger at no cost. As of March 11 2013, the EV Project had met it currently funded goal for residential charging units and is no longer accepting applications. EV Drivers can still sign up and join in the monitoring project of the public charging units to help better understand the use, need, and type of chargers. Click to Enlarge Map via WestCoastGreenHighway.com The layout of charging stations show that most are 20 to 30 miles apart with some being 50 to 60 miles apart which would require one to carefully and efficiently plan their driving. The one item that this map does not show is topography. The Pacific Northwest is a mountainous area that is also home to strong winds of which both can and do affect range of these autos. Fortunately many will find that the West Coast Green Highway site covers all of North America with alternative Fueling station locators. The Electric Highway is a part of a broader effort by the Department of Transportation for Washington, Oregon, and California to expand the use of Natural Gas, Biodiesel, Ethanol, and Hydrogen options along the 1,350 miles of I-5 from the US border with Canada to the US border with Mexico. In a drive for those that wish to help reduce greenhouse gas, clean up the air we breathe and give mother earth a break, the West Coast Green Highway project is a solid step in the right direction supporting many alternative transportation fueling options. -
G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - www.CheersandGears.com Tesla has set the auto world on fire with their sedan and now their Tesla X CUV. While most of us cannot afford a $100,000 dollar plus auto, what about our older auto's? Does it make sense to convert a traditional gas powered auto to an EV? Should I wait till a lower priced EV arrives like the Chevy Bolt? Many states have come out strong in their support for CNG home and business fueling equipment such as Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, and Texas. Other states have come out strong pushing to having people go electric and add electric chargers to your home such as Washington and Oregon. One large state pushing CNG, Electric and Hydrogen, is California. The average conversion on a petrol powered auto to CNG tends to run $10K to $15K depending on the size of the CNG tank and then you have fueling equipment if you want to fuel from home that runs from $5K to $10K depending on size. This means an average person converting an auto to CNG is looking at $15K to $25K price and can be even more if you buy a new CNG auto. You have many choices in the EV field such as the Nissan Leaf, Chevy Spark EV, Fiat 500 EV and a few others that all run in the 60 to 80 mile range of electric auto's. The upcoming Chevy Bolt is a 200 mile range EV which many feel will make an impact on autos sales. These are the EV's that are all in the $25K to $35K range depending on federal subsidies. So with thinking about the current EV's on the market and what is coming, does it make sense to convert an existing auto to electric? What is the cost of conversion and what are my options as I hear about AC versus DC driven autos? What should I have at my home to charge the auto? This is what I took as I thought about my own auto's I own and realizing that a big 6'6" 280lb man who drives full size SUV's, GMC Suburban and Escalade, finds it hard to find a greener solution in the full size SUV arena. As such, I choose to research what it would cost to convert my 1994 GMC SLE Suburban which has a modified 402 V8 500HP, 551lbs of Torque engine that requires Premium fuel or CNG to drive. In researching this I found that there are many pros and cons of AC versus DC motors. AC or alternating current electric motors and DC or Direct current electric motors are both able to achieve the job of moving an auto but are engineered a bit differently. DC current will not work with an AC motor nor will a AC current work with a DC motor. AC motors are divided into single phase and three phase motors. Single phase AC is what you typically find in a home, triple phase is commonly found in factory or commercial space, but can also be installed at a home. Today OEM auto makers are mostly using AC motors. DC motors also find themselves split into three types, brush motors, brushless motors and stepper motors. Brushed DC motors as found on Golf carts and many other small electric driven carts are easy to build and cost effective but their large drawback is that the carbon brushes used to transfer electrical current wear over time and eventually end in motor failure. Stepper motors are a brushless DC motor most commonly found in robotics/ automation. Not something you would use in an auto. The DC brushless motor eliminates brushes, is more costly to build and requires a complicated electronics system to operate but has long life and is usually what you find in EV's either converted or OEM built for the auto industry. So now that we know what the difference is between AC and DC motors, what are the advantages and disadvantages of these motors? Advantages of DC (Direct Current) motors are as follows: 1) Provide excellent speed control for acceleration and deceleration. 2) Easy to understand and design. 3) Inexpensive drive design. Disadvantages of DC motors are as follows: 1) High maintenance 2) Vulnerable to dust which decreases performance Advantages of AC (Alternating Current) motors are as follows: 1) Low cost due to simple design of the motor. 2) Generally smaller form factor. 3) Reliable operation, due to low maintenance, very rugged. Disadvantages of AC motors are as follows: 1) Low speed challenges 2) Back EMF (electromotive force) issues. This is where current in the loop of the motor that slows down the motor and has to be overcome. With all the advantages and disadvantages there are some situations that still demand a DC motor or a high performance AC motor. For long life and performance cooling is a requirement. This requires a premium efficient or energy efficient motor with proper air or liquid cooling. So knowing what I have in my suburban and wanting to keep it as true as possible as an auto that has its heaters, AC and the rest of the electronics ended up leaving me with the following parts list. EV Conversion Part List and Cost as supplied by www.electriccarpartscompany.com. This is a parts list with cost not including shipping or installation. 2 - Warp11 72-156v 453amp DC Motors will cost $5810.00 1 - Dual Motor Siamese adapter for Warp11 motors will cost $599.00 1-Air Conditioner Compressor will cost $864.00 1-Electric Power Steering Pump kit will cost $985.00 2-1000amp Zilla Motor controller will cost $3717.00 1-PB2 Pot Box Throttle will cost $99.00 1-Motor Adapter Plate and Spacer Ring will cost $450.00 1-Interconnecting Hub will cost $365.00 1-55amp DC-DC converter will cost $124.00 1-500A Fuse will cost $65.00 1-Fuse Holder will cost $65.00 1-12v 500amp contactor will cost $72.00 1-Inertia Switch will cost $57.00 1-Amp/Voltage meter with 500amp shunt will cost $108.00 1-QET 2000 watt 144v model P charger will cost $603.00 1 - 250V, 10-30A Locking Plugs, sockets, inlets & Bezel - $105.00 1-Orion BMS configured for 48 cells will cost $1131.00 Part Cost $15,219 which gives me an EV motor solution of 1000lbs of torque with near identical HP. 90 mile battery pack 48 -180Ah Calb CA180FI cells with bus bars, bolts and washers will cost $11,448.00 200 mile battery pack 48 - 400Ah LiFePo4 Lithium Prismatic cells with bus bars, bolts and washers will cost $28,032.00 90 Mile Solution Installation cost approximately $20,000.00 Part Cost approximately $15,219.00 90 mile battery pack $11,448.00 Total Cost $46,667.00 200 Mile Solution Installation cost approximately $20,000.00 Part Cost approximately $15,219.00 200 mile battery pack $28,032.00 Total Cost $63,032.00 With an overview of AC versus DC motors and having researched the installation, parts and battery pack, I have two options, a $47K 90 mile option or a $63K 200 mile option. Knowing that a new Suburban can run from $40K to $75K dollars, which makes sense? Buy a new petrol suburban or rebuild my existing Suburban to be EV? I think this really comes down to a personal choice as you have to decide if your old auto is worth more to refit as an EV or stay with petrol and drive a new one. Personally, I am leaning towards the EV conversion as my 94 GMC SLE Suburban is in mint condition, paid for and the cost of conversion would give me a 30Amp quick charging solution that long term would end up paying for itself I believe. In the end if you are interested in converting your auto to electric, you have a number of choices. The following web sites offer a complete catalog of parts for those that want to engineer the complete solution. They also offer Conversion kits that cover many popular cars and trucks. Which is right for you, can only be decided by your own choice of what you want to accomplish. http://www.electric-cars-are-for-girls.com/electric-car-conversion-kit.html http://www.evwest.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=40&osCsid=ve0hk6f1hpvnt5mk78pvuqosk2 http://www.electriccarpartscompany.com/ The final alternative is a new Hybrid Suburban offered by VIA Motors. Pure electric for 40 miles, then gas kicks in to balance and you end up with a 24mpg suburban but at a starting price of $79,000. Via motors web site is here: http://www.viamotors.com/ TopSpeed review is here: http://www.topspeed.com/cars/others/2013-via-vtrux-suburban-ar133014.html -
G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - www.CheersandGears.com Toyota converting auto transportation fleet to CNG. Nov 23rd 2015 Toyota Corporation released a media announcement that they would start with their first CNG auto hauler as they moved to be greener in transporting their green fleet of auto's to the dealers. CNG Auto Hauler Toyota worked with Peterbilt and Cottrell to build the first of many to come. This is a Peterbilt 365 day cab tractor with an 11.9L ISX 12 G Engine by Cummins modified for CNG operation. This is a 9 car hauler with 90 gallon capacity of CNG, two type IV carbon fiber 45 gallon tanks, one on each side of the truck. Toyota states that this hauler does what every other hauler out there does but with 85% less particulate matter and 10% less carbon dioxide. Toyota is deploying this hauler out of Long Beach California where it will deliver auto's while racking up between 7000-8000 miles per month.
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G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - www.CheersandGears.com Chevy Adds 3500HD Chassis Cab to CNG Lineup GM anounced quietly back on 5-7-2015 that they would be adding their Silverado 3500HD Chassis Cab Bi-fuel truck to the CNG lineup. This truck will be available in either 2WD or 4WD and comes with a 24.5 gallon CNG tank and a 23.5 Petrol tank. They have launched this new bi-fuel option with Southern California Gas Co who will take delivery of 5,000 trucks between now and the end of the year. Southern California Gas has committed to making their fleet CNG by 2020 per the Press Release. These CNG trucks will come with GM's standard 5yr 100,000 mile warranty for qualified commercial and government fleets. All other customers will get a 5yr 60,000 mile warranty. Regardless of who you are all CNG customers will get 2 years 24,000 miles of scheduled maintenance.
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Loves Truck Stops, 99 cents per gallon CNG fueling! Loves truck stops posted to their web site the announcement of 5 new CNG fueling centers that now offer CNG Fast Fill at only 99 cents per gallon. San Antonio, Texas – I-35, Exit 144 Rockwall, Texas - I-30, Exit 70 Katy, Texas – I-10, Exit 737 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – I-40, Exit 166 Amarillo, Texas - I-40, Exit 74 Loves now offers CNG Fast Fill fueling at 11 truck stops. They started off with what they call the Texas Triangle with CNG fast fill available in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio. They now have pushed up into Amarillo Texas and Choctaw Oklahoma. They plan to cover the I-40 1300 mile stretch with CNG Fast fill fueling by the end of 2015. Love states their CNG fueling system allows them to fill a 100 gallon tank in 10 minutes or less. http://www.loves.com/AboutUs/MediaCenter/News/CNGavailablefor99centsat5newlocations.aspx
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Duke Engines – Time for a NEW FORMAT?
G. David Felt posted a topic in Alternative Fuels & Propulsion
G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Duke Engines – Time for a NEW FORMAT? A 5-cylinder Axial engine at 1,000cc size begs the question: Is this the future of motorcycle and auto engines or just a wild idea like the Mazda Rotary? Duke Engines has been playing with outside the box engine design for some time. They play in the markets of Marine with inboard and outboard engines to aircraft and AC generators. They recently are using their Axial engine design to play in the Range Extender market for hybrid auto’s with a thought of the VOLT style car, electric driven auto with a generator to produce electricity for long range drives as well as the motorcycle market. So what does a Duke Engine offer over traditional 60 degree, 90 degree v engines or straight 4/6 cylinder engines? Duke says that their Axial engine offer No Vibration, High Power that leads to considerable reduced size and weight. Performance lovers will love the high power to weight ratio or density that the Duke Engine brings. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTpPBiReaZk The base engine at 1,000cc gives you 125hp and 20% more torque than the same size conventional engine with much fewer moving parts according to their web site. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c19kn3drdFU These compact Axial engine design is akin to the shape of current electric motors. Their current 3.0L prototype engine has been tested up to 4500rpm putting out 215hp and 250lb of torque. Duke Engine put together this FAQ page. Frequently Asked Questions So with this truly unique design on engines, is this the future for GAS, Diesel, CNG engines / generators? Does this make sense to use this in the next generation of Volt Type hybrid auto’s? Would you drive a motorcycle with an Axial engine? Leave your thoughts on what you think of this new engine design? Could this be the new Small Block V8 pushrod replacement that the world is looking for?
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Hyundai i30 CNG Wagon Launches Lucky for us there are alternative ways to find out information even when a corporation chooses to not post information about a great release on their web site. NGV Journal attended the Paris show presentation, Hyundai Senior VP and COO for Hyundai Motor Europe introduced the new i30 CNG wagon for Europe. i30 CNG has the following specifications: New 1.4L T-GDI engine 86kW (115HP), Torque 206Nm (152lb ft) from 1500rpm 7 speed Dual-clutch transmission Powertrain meets the strict Euro6c emissions standard that goes into effect in 2017, 3yrs ahead of schedule. Innovative CNG Storage Tank, Rectangular floor pan ensuring interior space and trunk space are equal to the gas and diesel powered versions of the i30. The new tank is a glassfiber reinforced plastice tank with a gas-impermeable polyamide matrix inside that is half the weight of conventional steel type 1 tanks. The i30 Wagon is a bi-fuel car that starts and runs on CNG but switches to the gas tank once CNG is used up for long distance driving. Hyundai is committed to creating sustainable mobility using alternative fuels for Europe and the world according the Allen Rushforth. HYUNDAI i30 WAGON WEB SITE
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Zero Emission Auto's, are they truly Greener than Gas? Many people here know me as a CNG person. Some will say electric is greener than CNG and Gas. We know CNG is cleaner than GAS, but is pure electric truly greener than CNG or gas? I have talked about how much CO2 is produced during the battery building stage for these pure electric cars. I have also pointed out that in places where Coal is used for creating energy, electric is dirty compared to CNG or Gas. Yes living in the Pacific Northwest, Washington has an abundance of Hydro and wind power, so Electric cars are very green. Even in the south, Southwest where solar is a huge factor, electric is pretty green. Yet once you move to the Midwest and East-coast, Electric auto's become far dirtier than normal gas powered auto's and CNG or Hybrids like the Chevy VOLT are cleaner than electric auto's. Yes you have nuclear in select areas but even than you have the waste from these plants that cause issues. So then are Zero Emission Auto's truly the Green Dream for everyone? Lucky for me, the LA Times finally did a research piece on just this thing and after looking at the history or power use and places that electric cars have been used came to the same conclusion I did that depending on how the electricity is generated, electric auto's can be cleaner or dirtier than gas, cng or hybrid auto's. http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-1117-graff-electric-cars-policy-20141114-story.html 1) The story says by 2019 or half a decade, electric auto's will outsell the Toyota Camry. 2) The story says sales will only grow as long as the $7500 fed subsidy is in place for now. 3) Green all depends on where the electricity comes from. 4) EPA has doubled the fuel MPG by 2025. 5) EPA is developing a clean power plan for electricity production. 6) 100 years ago, electric auto's were the dominate product which was replaced by gas and now it coming full circle to be a dominate player. 7) This is a major push all due to Climate Change. Sound off, do you agree with what is stated here? Yes or No Where do you see electric auto's fitting in? Is there a valid reason to go CNG or Hybrid over electric? Is range anxiety a valid reason or just an excuse? What are your thoughts on a logical progression for the auto industry for powertrains?
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Ledcor Converts Fleet to CNG http://www.ledcor.com/news-events/news/2014/october/ledcor-to-own-one-of-canada-s-largest-natural-gas Using FortisBC's incentive program, Ledcor has committed to taking 200 CNG Ford Transits to replace their service fleet. Currently they already own 15 Class 8 LNG trucks giving them 215 alternative fuel vehicles. Scott Lyons, COO Ledcor Technical Services states; "We estimate we'll reduce our annual fuel costs by about 30% and reduce our green-house-gas emissions by approximately 23% or 2,000 tonnes of CO2e per year. Ledcor states the CNG auto's significantly lower emissions. 70 - 90 percent less carbon monoxide. 75 - 95 percent less nitrogen oxides. 20 - 30 percent less carbon dioxide. CNG vehicles see less corrosion and wear in engine parts, allowing for a more durable, productive and reliable fleet. Ford Fleet Sales was thrilled to have one company change their whole fleet to the new Ford Transit Connect CNG mini van.
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Oregon has officially sent out notice to the world that their first public large scale fueling station is open and the official opening is June 11th. This allows drivers to get from Canada to Baja California on pure CNG only now. Not only does this reduce oil consumption, but since this is also a Redeem station, it is using recaptured methan from biowaste and trash.
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Wednesday 4th of June, NAFA (National Association of Fleet Administrators) had a Green Lunch Buffet to cover the upcoming changes to the pacific northwest. They covered the newest public CNG stations opening this year including a major station that will serve the public and truckers in Oregon on I5 as well as 3 new stations for Seattle. These stations will offer both LNG (Liquid Natural Gas) and CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) to the public. Washington State who has the largest ferry fleet in the nation is building 4 new ferries which will run on LNG with the goal over the next 5 years to convert the whole fleet to LNG. We were told that in Diesel form, these 4 ferry's would consume 600,000 gallons of diesel in a 24hr period. On LNG they are expecting to only consume 510,000 gallons of LNG every 24hrs. The state also said they expect to see a reduction in cost due to how clean the engines run, longer run times between maintenance and less cost to clean up environmental spills from diesel / oil. Peterbilt / Kenworth / Paccar presented showing the growing fleet of pure CNG powered trucks from medium duty to heavy duty with 7L, 9L, 10L and an upcoming 12L LNG/CNG engine options. Fleets were shown the growing list of OEM CNG auto's from Detroit big 3 and how checking the box for the $200 option for a Hardened Engine was a wise move for down the road when they must convert all auto's to CNG, BioFuel or move to Electric. Washington state has pushed back their mandate from 2015 to 2018 to give a bit more time for the Cities, Counties and state to move all public autos to CNG, Biodiesel or electric. Clean Energy announced the purchase of multiple rights to harvest the methane from landfills, animal waste, etc. around the US, scrub it clean and put it into the natural gas supply so that stations can be Redeem certified as a renewable gas source. WorldCNG presented their updated list of 2014 CNG converted auto's. They informed the audience of the new choice for businesses to public entities of having an AWD Terrain or Equinox CUV on CNG. They also brought for people to look at and check out their first converted 2014 3500 CNG Ram Promaster. There was much interest and excitement by the services and city delivery companies as well as local government agencies. While exciting to see this van in person, my personal impression is that this will sell well but not be a long lasting van. To start with, the dash is hard plastic and feels very flimsy. I honestly did not feel it was solid. Fit and finish has a long ways to go as I found many flaws and much unfinished edges in the finished area of the cab as well as at the doors. Inside of the van was aimed for refitters with many places to bolt in various shelf, draws, bins, etc. for custom configuration. Style is truly a personal choice as while I do not think it is a very good looking van, the fleet people that attended seemed to be split down the center 50/50 on love it or hate it for the style. They all loved the CNG option. Interesting note is that to reduce drag on the underside of the van the ProMasters have a very smooth finished if one can call it that to reduce drag. The flip side of this coin is that you reduce drag and get better mpg but you have no place to mount or add on options. This causes the CNG tanks to be stored in a vertical rack behind the cab in a 3 or 4 tank configuration. Have questions? Ask away!
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com Chevy announced this past week the pricing on the bi-fuel 2015 Chevy Impala. Starting price of $38,210 including the $825 destination charge before tax, title, license, dealer fees and optional equipment. 2015 bi-fuel Impala comes standard with a hardened 3.6L V6 engine and a combined range of 500 miles. 150 of the 500 mile range being CNG. Warranty is the standard 3yr/36K miles bumper to bumper and 5yr/100K miles power train. Further Details at GM: http://media.chevrolet.com/media/us/en/chevrolet/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2014/May/0506-impala-pricing.html
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G. David Felt Alternative Fuels & Propulsion writer www.CheersandGears.com 2015 GM Bi-fuel CNG pricing! This week GM released the 2015 pricing for their Bi-fuel options on Silverado and Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD trucks as well as the Chevy Express and GMC Savana Cargo and Passenger Vans. Chevy and GMC Trucks Bi-fuel CNG option starts at $9500 for the option. Chevy and GMC full size vans can be purchased with the CNG option in a 3 tank ($10,825) or 4 tank ($12,090) configuration. GM Warrants the Bi-fuel auto's on their current 5 year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty which ever comes first. These auto's are serviced at all dealers nationwide in the United States. CNG is currently priced on average 62% less per gallon than gasoline and with an average work truck driving 26,000 miles a year this equates to a $2000 savings per year. http://media.gm.com/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2014/Apr/0415-cng-pricing.html Full details on fuel savings and actual specifications on the Bi-fuel CNG trucks can be read here: http://media.gm.com/media/us/en/gm/news.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2014/Feb/chicago/chevrolet/0206-silverado-hd-cng.html Full Specifications on the 2015 Chevy and GMC 2500 and 3500 Trucks.
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G. David Felt Staff Writer Alternative Energy - CheersandGears.com Gaining little attention in the main stream news but giving a nice bump in stock price to Chrysler, GM, Honda, Fiat and a few energy companies. Chrysler showed off a new RAM 2500 that had a pair of CNG tanks that are in the shape of lungs storing CNG in many different compartments. The new tank design in the RAM truck gave it a 255 mile range on CNG. With the 35Gallon Petrol tank, this now gives the RAM Bi-Fuel Truck a 745 mile range when configured in Bi-Fuel form from RAM. The longest range currently available from an OEM for a CNG/Petrol Truck. The idea is it would allow the ease of making various shapes for CNG fuel holding with increased storage removing the limitations on traditional CNG tanks. Full story here: http://www.autonews.com/article/20131112/OEM04/131119977/chrysler-mimics-human-lung-to-broaden-cng-use#axzz2kYb3krjY Thoughts? What do you think, will this help speed up adoption of CNG?
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5 Reasons Why You Should Switch to Compressed Natural Gas According to the Natural Gas Vehicles for America, there are now over 120,000 vehicles in the United States that run on compressed natural gas. Around the world, there are now more than 14 million natural gas vehicles or NGVs. And these numbers will continue to rise as compressed natural gas increasingly becomes the alternative fuel of choice. But what made almost 14 million vehicle owners all over the world decide to choose CNG vehicles over traditional? Let’s take a look at 5 of the best reasons why compressed natural gas should be your choice too. Compressed natural gas is ECO-FRIENDLY? Engines running on CNG produce less hydrocarbon exhaust emissions than gasoline-fuelled engines. In fact, compared to cars fuelled by gasoline or diesel, natural gas vehicles produce 70% less carbon monoxide (CO), 87% less non-methane organic gas (NMOG), 87% less nitrogen oxide (NOx) and 20% less carbon dioxide (CO2). And although natural gas vehicles do emit methane, one of the principal greenhouse gases, the methane emission is offset by the significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Compressed Natural Gas is SAFE? CNG is stored in spherical or cylindrical tanks that are much stronger than gasoline fuel tanks. In case of an accident, CNG will dissipate into the atmosphere unlike gasoline, which pools in the ground and becomes a dangerous fire hazard. CNG also has a narrower range of flammability, which means that natural gas will not burn in concentrations in air that is below 5% and above 15%. In addition, natural gas is not toxic or corrosive. And because any leaks dissipate into the atmosphere instead of the ground, CNG will not contaminate ground water. Compressed Natural Gas is EFFICIENT - Since natural gas is 90% methane, it has a substantially higher octane rating compared to gasoline. This allows for higher compression ratios that make the engines running on CNG significantly more efficient. Also, because CNG is a clean-burning fuel, it causes less wear and tear on the engine. This results to longer engine life and more savings from maintenance costs such as tune-ups and oil/ spark plug changes. Compressed Natural Gas COSTS LESS? Natural gas costs significantly less than either gasoline or diesel. In fact, CNG is available at a third of the price of gasoline on average. Also, the prices of natural gas are less volatile compared to oil prices. This stability makes long term cost planning easier. Reduction in engine wear and tear due to the clean burning characteristic of natural gas also helps NGV owners save up on expensive tune-ups, parts replacements and oil changes. Compressed Natural Gas is ABUNDANT and READILY AVAILABLE - The United States has an abundant supply of natural gas. There is also an extensive, well-established network of gas pipelines distributing natural gas to several areas in the country. Also, there are now more than 1,300 CNG fuelling stations across the US with more being built everyday. This makes CNG use convenient as NGV owners have easy access to natural gas fuelling stations. With these five top reasons, it’s easy to see why CNG is an excellent alternative to petroleum-based fuels. Making the switch to CNG is easy even if you currently own a gasoline or diesel vehicle. Many CNG Companies offers the best conversion systems on the market- Auto Gaz the world leader of consistent top quality CNG systems, Versus another world leader of Bi-fuel auto switching CNG Systems. You can find a system to match most any vehicle from Ford - Chevy, Mazda - BMW, GMC - Volkswagon , local CNG conversion shops will handle it and your Local Fuel Maker Distributor can install Home CSA certified Fueling appliance. This alone usually keeps you under a Dollar a gallon. Same MPG, More HP, More Torque, Considerably less Green house gas as it is a green fuel. Why not switch to CNG Today! Need more proof, check out the NGVA site for an abundance of great facts on why America should move to CNG! http://www.ngvc.org/index.html
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CNG Safety CNG is one of the safest vehicle fuels available, CNG is safer than gasoline. According to the Federal Transit Administration. Data collected over time has demonstrated natural gas vehicles to be safe in actual operation. Based on a survey of 8,331 natural gas utility, school, municipal and business fleet vehicles (NGVs) that traveled 178.3 million miles on CNG: • The NGV fleet vehicle injury rate was 37% lower than the gasoline fleet vehicle rate. • There were no fatalities compared with 1.28 deaths per 100 million miles for gasoline fleet vehicles. • The collision rate for NGV fleet vehicles was 31% lower than the rate for gasoline fleet vehicles • The fleet of 8,331 NGVs was involved in seven fire incidents, only one of which was directly attributable to failure of the natural gas fuel system. Gun Test on Natural Gas Tank Sever Abuse Tank Test Because CNG is mostly made of methane and methane is odourless CNG is odorised with Mercaptan to provide a ready means of leak detection. An average person can easily detect the smell of gas at a concentration as low as 0.3% by volume in air. That concentration is about 16 times lower than the level which will support combustion. CNG has a high ignition temperature, about 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, compared with about 600 degrees Fahrenheit for gasoline. It also has a narrow range of flammability, that is, in concentrations in air below about 5 percent and above about 15 percent, natural gas will not burn. The high ignition temperature and limited flammability range make accidental ignition or combustion of CNG unlikely. CNG has no known toxic or chronic physiological effects (it is not poisonous). Exposure to a moderate concentration may result in a headache or similar symptoms due to oxygen deprivation but it is likely that the smell would be detected well in advance of concentrations being high enough for this to occur. The fact that CNG is lighter than air further enhances its safety. Unlike other fuels such as diesel, petrol or LPG, which are heavier than air, and pools on the ground creating a fire hazard and potential pollution to waterways. Should a CNG leak occur, the gas will disperse rapidly upwards into the atmosphere and dissipate. CNG fuel systems are "sealed," which prevents any spills or evaporative losses. Even if a leak were to occur in an NGV fuel system, the natural gas would dissipate into the atmosphere because it is lighter than air. Natural gas is not toxic or corrosive and will not contaminate ground water. CNG combustion produces no significant aldehydes or other air toxins, which are a concern in gasoline and some other alternative fuels. CNG fuel cylinders are much, much stronger than gasoline tanks. The design of the cylinders is subject to a number of "severe abuse" tests such as heat and pressure extremes, gunfire, collisions and fire. The systems are also fitted with valves and other safety devices to prevent leakage and eliminate the risk of an explosion - actually making them safer than the legal requirements stipulate. CNG cylinder pressure - as CNG is stored at high pressure, it is often perceived that the high pressure of the product makes it more hazardous than other fuels. While a high pressure gas leak tends to make a lot of noise as the gas is escaping. The resulting high concentrations of gas and its tendency to dissipate upwards make it less likely for the gas in the immediate vicinity of the leak to ignite. Safe distribution, CNG is delivered via underground pipeline networks, the same networks that deliver natural gas to our homes and businesses. This method not only eliminates the need for road tankers to deliver fuel from the refinery, but also the need for ocean going oil tankers to deliver crude oil to the refinery. The CNG delivery system itself also has an excellent and proven safety record. According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the natural gas transmission and distribution system is the safest way to transport.
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 19, 2013 Automakers are throwing a fair number of alternative fuels in a effort to improve mileage and emissions to see what sticks. General Motors announced this week that they are introducing Bi-Fuel Impala that will be available to fleets and consumers starting next summer. The company points out that the Impala is the only manufacturer-produced, full-size bi-fuel sedan in North America. The Bi-Fuel Impala can run on compressed natural gas (CNG) and gasoline. The vehicle features two tanks for the fuels and has a total range of 500 miles. The driver can change from CNG to gas and vice versa thanks to a button on the dash. We'll have more details on the 2015 Bi-Fuel Impala when we get closer to summer sale date. Source: General Motors William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Akerson Announces Bi-Fuel Chevrolet Impala Sedan 2013-10-16 -GM to offer only manufacturer-produced full-size bi-fuel sedan in North America -Designed to capitalize on plentiful clean, domestic natural gas -Will be sold to retail and fleet buyers as a 2015 model -CEO repeats call for consumer-driven national energy policy WASHINGTON, D.C. – General Motors will build a Chevrolet Impala sedan for retail and fleet customers that operates on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG), GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson announced today. It is the only manufacturer-produced full-size bi-fuel sedan and expected to go on sale next summer as a 2015 model. Akerson announced the car during remarks at an energy summit marking the 40th anniversary of the OPEC Oil Embargo. "OPEC Oil Embargo + 40: A National Summit on Energy Security," was sponsored by the nonpartisan group Securing America's Future Energy, or SAFE. Prominent political, business and military leaders assessed the current state of America's oil dependence since the 1973 oil embargo Akerson said the bi-fuel Impala is an example of using affordable technology to reduce oil consumption and save consumers money at the pump. "We know that U.S. energy security won't come from a one-off moonshot," Akerson said. "It will flow from our systematic investment in technology and innovation... our drive to get more from existing energy sources and renewables... our commitment to conservation... and it will be assured by fully and safely exploiting our shale gas reserves." Natural gas is a cleaner-burning transportation fuel compared to petroleum products, and costs significantly less than gasoline at current prices. CNG vehicles typically have 20 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline-powered cars, according to the California Air Resources Board. The Chevrolet Impala bi-fuel sedan addresses the range anxiety issue associated with vehicles that run only on natural gas, Akerson said. It features a factory-engineered and fully warranted powertrain that switches seamlessly from CNG to gasoline. Total range is expected to be up to 500 miles. Akerson said that in addition to advanced technologies and alternative fuels, achieving energy security will require productive partnerships between energy companies, utilities, environmental groups, labor unions, universities and manufacturers. GM, he said, is working closely with 14 of the country's largest unions and environmental groups through the Blue-Green Alliance, and has relationships with regulators that are "more constructive than ever." Akerson also reiterated a call he made earlier this year for the Administration and Congress to create a new, consumer-driven national energy policy from a position of strength and abundance. For its part, GM is committed to saving 12 billion gallons of gasoline in its 2011 to 2017 model year vehicles – offsetting nearly a year of crude imports from the Persian Gulf – with technologies that include lighter materials to reduce vehicle mass, alternative fuels, clean diesel and electrification. In addition to the Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Spark EV and the upcoming Cadillac ELR, GM is introducing start-stop technology standard on the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu helping the midsize sedan achieve 25 mpg city/36 mpg highway, and using electrification to boost fuel economy in the Buick Regal and LaCrosse sedans, which both get EPA-estimated 36 mpg hwy. -
Chevrolet News:Chevrolet Announces The 2015 Bi-Fuel Impala
William Maley posted a topic in Chevrolet
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 19, 2013 Automakers are throwing a fair number of alternative fuels in a effort to improve mileage and emissions to see what sticks. General Motors announced this week that they are introducing Bi-Fuel Impala that will be available to fleets and consumers starting next summer. The company points out that the Impala is the only manufacturer-produced, full-size bi-fuel sedan in North America. The Bi-Fuel Impala can run on compressed natural gas (CNG) and gasoline. The vehicle features two tanks for the fuels and has a total range of 500 miles. The driver can change from CNG to gas and vice versa thanks to a button on the dash. We'll have more details on the 2015 Bi-Fuel Impala when we get closer to summer sale date. Source: General Motors William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Akerson Announces Bi-Fuel Chevrolet Impala Sedan 2013-10-16 -GM to offer only manufacturer-produced full-size bi-fuel sedan in North America -Designed to capitalize on plentiful clean, domestic natural gas -Will be sold to retail and fleet buyers as a 2015 model -CEO repeats call for consumer-driven national energy policy WASHINGTON, D.C. – General Motors will build a Chevrolet Impala sedan for retail and fleet customers that operates on either gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG), GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson announced today. It is the only manufacturer-produced full-size bi-fuel sedan and expected to go on sale next summer as a 2015 model. Akerson announced the car during remarks at an energy summit marking the 40th anniversary of the OPEC Oil Embargo. "OPEC Oil Embargo + 40: A National Summit on Energy Security," was sponsored by the nonpartisan group Securing America's Future Energy, or SAFE. Prominent political, business and military leaders assessed the current state of America's oil dependence since the 1973 oil embargo Akerson said the bi-fuel Impala is an example of using affordable technology to reduce oil consumption and save consumers money at the pump. "We know that U.S. energy security won't come from a one-off moonshot," Akerson said. "It will flow from our systematic investment in technology and innovation... our drive to get more from existing energy sources and renewables... our commitment to conservation... and it will be assured by fully and safely exploiting our shale gas reserves." Natural gas is a cleaner-burning transportation fuel compared to petroleum products, and costs significantly less than gasoline at current prices. CNG vehicles typically have 20 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gasoline-powered cars, according to the California Air Resources Board. The Chevrolet Impala bi-fuel sedan addresses the range anxiety issue associated with vehicles that run only on natural gas, Akerson said. It features a factory-engineered and fully warranted powertrain that switches seamlessly from CNG to gasoline. Total range is expected to be up to 500 miles. Akerson said that in addition to advanced technologies and alternative fuels, achieving energy security will require productive partnerships between energy companies, utilities, environmental groups, labor unions, universities and manufacturers. GM, he said, is working closely with 14 of the country's largest unions and environmental groups through the Blue-Green Alliance, and has relationships with regulators that are "more constructive than ever." Akerson also reiterated a call he made earlier this year for the Administration and Congress to create a new, consumer-driven national energy policy from a position of strength and abundance. For its part, GM is committed to saving 12 billion gallons of gasoline in its 2011 to 2017 model year vehicles – offsetting nearly a year of crude imports from the Persian Gulf – with technologies that include lighter materials to reduce vehicle mass, alternative fuels, clean diesel and electrification. In addition to the Chevrolet Volt, Chevrolet Spark EV and the upcoming Cadillac ELR, GM is introducing start-stop technology standard on the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu helping the midsize sedan achieve 25 mpg city/36 mpg highway, and using electrification to boost fuel economy in the Buick Regal and LaCrosse sedans, which both get EPA-estimated 36 mpg hwy. View full article -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 31, 2013 Ford announced today that the 2014 F-150 pickup equipped with the 3.7L V6 will come with a CNG/LPG Prep package, making it the first light-duty pickup in the class to come with this feature. The package includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings. The CNG/LPG Prep package will set you back $315. That doesn't mean you can head to your nearest CNG/LPG station and fill up though. You will need to visit a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier which will install the CNG/LPG-specific fuel tanks, fuel lines and fuel injectors. When all is said and done, the conversion will set you back $7,500 to $9,500. Ford says an F-150 running on CNG/LPG gets 23 MPG on the highway and has a range of more than 750 Miles. “Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions. With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. Source: Ford William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 JUL 31, 2013 | DEARBORN, MICH. FORD F-150 TO OFFER ABILITY TO RUN ON COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS; SALES OF FORD CNG-PREPPED VEHICLES CONTINUE GROWTH 2014 Ford F-150 will offer a gaseous-fuel prep option on the 3.7-liter V6 engine; it will be able to run on compressed natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas With the addition of F-150, Ford will have eight vehicles available to run on clean-burning, inexpensive CNG/LPG. Sales continue to grow rapidly, with Ford expecting to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifiers offer a wide variety of CNG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs Ford, America’s truck leader, will offer the 2014 F-150 with the ability to run on compressed natural gas, making Ford the only manufacturer with an available CNG/LPG-capable half-ton pickup. The 2014 Ford F-150 with 3.7-liter V6 engine will be available this fall with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings so it can operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems. When the 3.7-liter V6 F-150 is equipped with a CNG/LPG engine package, it is capable of achieving more than 750 miles on one tank of gas, depending on the tank size selected. The Ford F-150 averages 23 mpg on the highway. “Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months.” CNG/LPG engine prep from the factory costs approximately $315 before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits run approximately $7,500 to $9,500 depending on fuel tank capacity. CNG conversions can provide stability against fluctuating fuel prices as well as lower vehicle operating costs for fleet administrators. CNG sells for an average of $2.11 per gallon of gasoline equivalent, and is as low as $1 in some parts of the country, representing a significant savings over unleaded regular fuel. The national average for unleaded regular fuel is $3.66 per gallon. In the next year, Ford will offer eight commercial vehicles with a gaseous-prep option, a number no other full-line manufacturer can match: Transit Connect van and wagon Transit van, wagon, cutaway and chassis cab E-Series van, wagon, cutaway and stripped chassis F-Series Super Duty pickup and F-350 chassis cab F-Series Super Duty chassis cab (F-450, F-550) F-650 medium-duty truck F53 and F59 stripped chassis 2014 F-150 light-duty pickup Customers are enthusiastically responding to this powerful array of choices. Since reintroducing the option in 2009, Ford has established itself as the leader in CNG/LPG engine sales. Ford is on pace to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year, an increase of more than 25 percent from 2012. AT&T is one of many Ford customers that are finding value in CNG. The communications giant recently purchased 650 F-350 chassis cabs with the CNG-prep option. “We’re almost halfway to our company-wide goal of deploying 15,000 alternative-fuel vehicles by the end of year 2018,” said Jerome Webber, AT&T vice president, global fleet operations. “Vehicles such as CNG F-350s from Ford have helped us avoid purchasing 7.7 million gallons of gasoline over the past five years while reducing our fleet’s emissions.” Qualified Vehicle Modifiers Ford has established a rigorous qualification program for alternative-fuel vehicle modifiers. The QVM program is intended to help modifiers achieve greater levels of customer satisfaction and product acceptance through the manufacture of high-quality vehicles. QVMs offer a wide variety of CNG/LPG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs. Ford maintains the engine and powertrain limited warranty (five years or 60,000 miles); the modifier is responsible for the system component warranty. Compressed natural gas Compressed natural gas is mainly composed of methane. It is stored and distributed in hard containers at a pressure of approximately 3,600 psi. About 85 percent of the CNG used in the United States is produced domestically. Another benefit of this alternative fuel: Cleaner emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certifies CNG usage can result in up to 30 percent less greenhouse gas emissions. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 31, 2013 Ford announced today that the 2014 F-150 pickup equipped with the 3.7L V6 will come with a CNG/LPG Prep package, making it the first light-duty pickup in the class to come with this feature. The package includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings. The CNG/LPG Prep package will set you back $315. That doesn't mean you can head to your nearest CNG/LPG station and fill up though. You will need to visit a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier which will install the CNG/LPG-specific fuel tanks, fuel lines and fuel injectors. When all is said and done, the conversion will set you back $7,500 to $9,500. Ford says an F-150 running on CNG/LPG gets 23 MPG on the highway and has a range of more than 750 Miles. “Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions. With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. Source: Ford William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 JUL 31, 2013 | DEARBORN, MICH. FORD F-150 TO OFFER ABILITY TO RUN ON COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS; SALES OF FORD CNG-PREPPED VEHICLES CONTINUE GROWTH 2014 Ford F-150 will offer a gaseous-fuel prep option on the 3.7-liter V6 engine; it will be able to run on compressed natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas With the addition of F-150, Ford will have eight vehicles available to run on clean-burning, inexpensive CNG/LPG. Sales continue to grow rapidly, with Ford expecting to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifiers offer a wide variety of CNG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs Ford, America’s truck leader, will offer the 2014 F-150 with the ability to run on compressed natural gas, making Ford the only manufacturer with an available CNG/LPG-capable half-ton pickup. The 2014 Ford F-150 with 3.7-liter V6 engine will be available this fall with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings so it can operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems. When the 3.7-liter V6 F-150 is equipped with a CNG/LPG engine package, it is capable of achieving more than 750 miles on one tank of gas, depending on the tank size selected. The Ford F-150 averages 23 mpg on the highway. “Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months.” CNG/LPG engine prep from the factory costs approximately $315 before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits run approximately $7,500 to $9,500 depending on fuel tank capacity. CNG conversions can provide stability against fluctuating fuel prices as well as lower vehicle operating costs for fleet administrators. CNG sells for an average of $2.11 per gallon of gasoline equivalent, and is as low as $1 in some parts of the country, representing a significant savings over unleaded regular fuel. The national average for unleaded regular fuel is $3.66 per gallon. In the next year, Ford will offer eight commercial vehicles with a gaseous-prep option, a number no other full-line manufacturer can match: Transit Connect van and wagon Transit van, wagon, cutaway and chassis cab E-Series van, wagon, cutaway and stripped chassis F-Series Super Duty pickup and F-350 chassis cab F-Series Super Duty chassis cab (F-450, F-550) F-650 medium-duty truck F53 and F59 stripped chassis 2014 F-150 light-duty pickup Customers are enthusiastically responding to this powerful array of choices. Since reintroducing the option in 2009, Ford has established itself as the leader in CNG/LPG engine sales. Ford is on pace to sell more than 15,000 CNG/LPG-prepped vehicles this year, an increase of more than 25 percent from 2012. AT&T is one of many Ford customers that are finding value in CNG. The communications giant recently purchased 650 F-350 chassis cabs with the CNG-prep option. “We’re almost halfway to our company-wide goal of deploying 15,000 alternative-fuel vehicles by the end of year 2018,” said Jerome Webber, AT&T vice president, global fleet operations. “Vehicles such as CNG F-350s from Ford have helped us avoid purchasing 7.7 million gallons of gasoline over the past five years while reducing our fleet’s emissions.” Qualified Vehicle Modifiers Ford has established a rigorous qualification program for alternative-fuel vehicle modifiers. The QVM program is intended to help modifiers achieve greater levels of customer satisfaction and product acceptance through the manufacture of high-quality vehicles. QVMs offer a wide variety of CNG/LPG options to help customers find the best, most cost-effective solution to their diverse operating needs. Ford maintains the engine and powertrain limited warranty (five years or 60,000 miles); the modifier is responsible for the system component warranty. Compressed natural gas Compressed natural gas is mainly composed of methane. It is stored and distributed in hard containers at a pressure of approximately 3,600 psi. About 85 percent of the CNG used in the United States is produced domestically. Another benefit of this alternative fuel: Cleaner emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certifies CNG usage can result in up to 30 percent less greenhouse gas emissions. View full article
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G. David Felt - Editorial Staff Writer Alternative Energy - CheersandGears.com What will it take? Oil started the year at over $100 a barrel and now hovers around $94 a barrel. Oil may fluctuate but continues to stay close to $100 a barrel. Refined Gas production being sold overseas keeps the average consumer paying $4 plus a gallon and people continue to complain about Green House gas emissions and the lack of being able to afford the gas cost. Natural Gas on the other hand continues to increase in production keeping prices right at $4 per thousand cubic feet or about 30 cents per gallon before government tax's giving one a range from a low of $.60 a gallon to $1.85 per gallon. As one who fuels at his own house and pays 85 cents per gallon this does make one wonder "What will it take?" What will it take to get people to switch to CNG or Compressed Natural Gas? What will it take to get someone to consider buying a CNG auto? What will it take to make a dynamic shift in the type of fuel people use in the US? In today’s news there has been states making huge moves to incent residents to change their autos. Perfect example is Colorado that just renewed their credits of $6000 to go on top of the federal government’s $7500 credit. This give a resident of the state of Colorado a $13,500 rebate off the price of a all-electric, plug-in hybrid or compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. Dealerships in Colorado are heavily advertising this with clear signs of let our finance department get you your rebate on your new car. According to the State of Colorado: “With the tax credits available (through 2015 currently), Coloradans would pay an additional $275-$2,400 for a PEV instead of a comparable internal combustion vehicle (ICE). By 2017, the price difference without taxes is expected to be $3,600-$11,000. The tax credit defined in this bill helps consumers to purchase cars they otherwise might not. As a consequence, they can recoup the savings on gasoline by approximately $1,319 per year, and a savings of $244 per year on maintenance costs. According to one survey, if the PEV purchase price were the same as a comparable ICE vehicle, 60 percent of consumers would consider purchasing the PEV. When that purchase price is higher, only 26 percent would consider purchasing the PEV. The financial impact for the new Colorado incentives from the tax credit extension is estimated by the state at $2.4 million in fiscal year 2012-13, $5.2 million in FY 2013-14, and $5.9 million in FY 2014-15.” Is this a wise use of state tax dollars? With 27 states and Washington D.C. offering some form of incentive, should the local governments be doing this to push consumers towards the Green revolution of autos? With North America having the largest natural gas reserves in the world, should we shun the rest of the world and make the full switch to CNG as a stepping stone to a greener country and towards pure electric auto’s some day? Currently Colorado, California, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina and Washington State provide some form of rebates, credits or exemptions. Nine other states offer non-financial incentives for hybrids or alternative energy auto’s. As a person who sells Fuelmaker Home (CNG) compressed natural gas fuel systems, I do have a financial interest in seeing things move to natural gas. Not only is CNG 50-75% less greenhouse gas producing. It allows auto’s to still cover long distances something a pure electric auto is incapable of. They burn so clean that the engine itself has a much longer life give one to have to change oil less often, the maintenance is much lower on a CNG auto. I do admit the upfront cost tends to scare some with the basic home fueling system running about $5000 installed. Yet with 257 million auto’s on the road with average age of 11 years, one looks at close to $30,000 in fuel cost over 11 years versus $4000 for natural gas based on an average 15,000 miles driven. So is the estimated $21,000 dollars savings not a good enough reason to move to natural gas on top of the up to two thirds less greenhouse gas production? So this comes back to my original question, what will it take to change America? Sound off on your thoughts about this area of the auto industry? -
G. David Felt - Editorial Staff Writer Alternative Energy - CheersandGears.com What will it take? Oil started the year at over $100 a barrel and now hovers around $94 a barrel. Oil may fluctuate but continues to stay close to $100 a barrel. Refined Gas production being sold overseas keeps the average consumer paying $4 plus a gallon and people continue to complain about Green House gas emissions and the lack of being able to afford the gas cost. Natural Gas on the other hand continues to increase in production keeping prices right at $4 per thousand cubic feet or about 30 cents per gallon before government tax's giving one a range from a low of $.60 a gallon to $1.85 per gallon. As one who fuels at his own house and pays 85 cents per gallon this does make one wonder "What will it take?" What will it take to get people to switch to CNG or Compressed Natural Gas? What will it take to get someone to consider buying a CNG auto? What will it take to make a dynamic shift in the type of fuel people use in the US? In today’s news there has been states making huge moves to incent residents to change their autos. Perfect example is Colorado that just renewed their credits of $6000 to go on top of the federal government’s $7500 credit. This give a resident of the state of Colorado a $13,500 rebate off the price of a all-electric, plug-in hybrid or compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles. Dealerships in Colorado are heavily advertising this with clear signs of let our finance department get you your rebate on your new car. According to the State of Colorado: “With the tax credits available (through 2015 currently), Coloradans would pay an additional $275-$2,400 for a PEV instead of a comparable internal combustion vehicle (ICE). By 2017, the price difference without taxes is expected to be $3,600-$11,000. The tax credit defined in this bill helps consumers to purchase cars they otherwise might not. As a consequence, they can recoup the savings on gasoline by approximately $1,319 per year, and a savings of $244 per year on maintenance costs. According to one survey, if the PEV purchase price were the same as a comparable ICE vehicle, 60 percent of consumers would consider purchasing the PEV. When that purchase price is higher, only 26 percent would consider purchasing the PEV. The financial impact for the new Colorado incentives from the tax credit extension is estimated by the state at $2.4 million in fiscal year 2012-13, $5.2 million in FY 2013-14, and $5.9 million in FY 2014-15.” Is this a wise use of state tax dollars? With 27 states and Washington D.C. offering some form of incentive, should the local governments be doing this to push consumers towards the Green revolution of autos? With North America having the largest natural gas reserves in the world, should we shun the rest of the world and make the full switch to CNG as a stepping stone to a greener country and towards pure electric auto’s some day? Currently Colorado, California, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon, South Carolina and Washington State provide some form of rebates, credits or exemptions. Nine other states offer non-financial incentives for hybrids or alternative energy auto’s. As a person who sells Fuelmaker Home (CNG) compressed natural gas fuel systems, I do have a financial interest in seeing things move to natural gas. Not only is CNG 50-75% less greenhouse gas producing. It allows auto’s to still cover long distances something a pure electric auto is incapable of. They burn so clean that the engine itself has a much longer life give one to have to change oil less often, the maintenance is much lower on a CNG auto. I do admit the upfront cost tends to scare some with the basic home fueling system running about $5000 installed. Yet with 257 million auto’s on the road with average age of 11 years, one looks at close to $30,000 in fuel cost over 11 years versus $4000 for natural gas based on an average 15,000 miles driven. So is the estimated $21,000 dollars savings not a good enough reason to move to natural gas on top of the up to two thirds less greenhouse gas production? So this comes back to my original question, what will it take to change America? Sound off on your thoughts about this area of the auto industry? View full article
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So a little Birdy from GM Fleet made a comment to me and when I pushed she said she could not comment on future product. What was it she wispered to me you ask? I made the comment in talking with this individual who over sees the Pacific NW Fleet sales that I would love to buy a Diesel or CNG Suburban as Gas powered versions just do not do it for me. Her comment was just wait till the roll out of 2014 models and your wish will come true for Bi-Fuel. So I pushed her if this was an Impco product like their Bi-Fuel Trucks and she clamped up with the no comment on future products. So I am now thinking that since the 6.0 V8 in the Suburban is no different than the trucks and the better benefit is that the tanks can be on the driver side between the frame and drive line that this could be a very cool option. With the auto switch sensor between natural gas and regular gas, this could make for a great hauling ride and daily driver as it is cheap to fill up the Natural Gas. So what are your thoughts on this, would you be interested in a Bi-Fuel Suburban with about a 700 mile range using both fuels? Sound Off!
