Last month, Dave Wager, Executive Director of the Minnesota Propane Association, embarked on what is fondly known as the “great American road trip”. The tour was made in the association’s Ford Explorer powered by LPG.

The car, equipped with an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved Autogas system, is bi-fuel capable, so it runs on LPG and petrol gasoline, if necessary.

The total trip covered 3,444 miles through eight states. Wager refuelled Autogas 21 times, with 3,106 miles driven on Autogas and 338 miles on petrol.

“I did not pre-plan any of my propane stops. I wanted to experience this trip the same as any other person and have the ability to change plans, destinations en route, which I did a couple times. I primarily used the alternative fuelling station locator app. The longest stretch I went without LPG was 120 miles along a very remote part of a state with little to no services”, explained Wager.

He also commented that travelled on flat interstates, back country roads, to the top of Pike’s Peak and back to Minnesota “with absolutely no problems with the vehicle.” “Prior to this trip, I would tell people that propane is better suited as a fleet fuel, where the vehicles return to their home location every day to refuel. That is true – propane is an ideal fleet fuel for lowest cost of operation and greatest emission reductions. But after this trip, I now know that propane is also an ideal fuel for any use”, he added.

Even with the small tank size, the vehicle’s bi-fuel ability removed any range anxiety, according to Wager. He also remarked that he could see first-hand how available Autogas is already in the US.

“One of the biggest hurdles we may face is recognition of our product. Hopefully I made a difference on this trip as the conversations always ended with ‘this makes total sense.’ Let’s all do our part to get the word out on all the advantages of our wonderful Autogas,” he concluded.

Source: LPGas Magazine

25 October 2023