Propane, known in vehicle application as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or propane autogas, is a popular alternative fuel choice for light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles. Propane fuel is lower-cost than gasoline or diesel, offers reduced emissions, performs well in cold weather, and results in lower vehicle maintenance costs. Propane’s widespread domestic availability, high-energy density, clean-burning qualities, and relative low cost make it the world’s third most common transportation fuel, behind gasoline and diesel. Propane is produced as a by-product of natural gas processing and crude oil refining and is a gaseous fuel stored under pressure inside a tank as a liquid.
Propane Vehicles
There are two types of propane vehicles: dedicated and bi-fuel. Bi-fuel vehicles have two separate fueling systems, enabling the vehicle to run on either propane or gasoline, while dedicated propane vehicles run on only propane. A variety of light-, medium-, and heavy-duty propane vehicle models are available through original equipment manufacturers and select dealerships. Gasoline vehicles can also be converted for propane operation using qualified system retrofitters, and “prep ready” vehicle engines designed to handle the needed conditions for propane modification are also available.
While the initial cost of propane vehicles can be higher than gasoline vehicles, fuel savings can quickly make up the return on investment. Lower maintenance costs of propane vehicles can also contribute to savings. Operating costs for propane vehicles are typically on par with diesel vehicles.
Explore Propane Stations
Propane fueling stations are categorized as either “primary” or “secondary”. Primary stations have dedicated vehicle services and tend to be less expensive than secondary stations, which mostly serve the propane tank and bottle market.
Incentives & Funding for Propane
Significant tax credits, rebates and incentives are available for LPG vehicles and station developments. View Incentives & Funding Details
Propane Links
Propane Basics – Learn the basics about propane as a fuel from the Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuel Data Center.
Propane Applications for Fleets – Learn more about the uses of propane in fleets from the Propane Education & Research Council.
