Propane Autogas Vs. Electric Vehicles: Which Is Cleaner?

There has been much talk about achieving net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2050, and transitioning to all-electric vehicles has been a part of the conversation because electricity is considered a “clean fuel” by many.

Although a battery-powered all-electric car itself doesn’t produce any emissions, the power plant that generates the electricity used to charge those batteries probably does.

And those power plants, many of them coal-fired, are among the largest sources of greenhouse gas pollution in the United States.

While production of electric vehicles and related infrastructure continues to grow, some technology remains in the development stage. In contrast, propane autogas has seen impressive technology advances in the last decade, providing fleets with reliable performance and savings while reducing emissions.

Start-up Costs

For an electric fleet of vehicles, the power requirements for multiple charging stations dramatically increase site preparation costs. Other add-on costs include the trenching, conduits, cables, and repaving required to run a power line to the charging center. Owners of electric fleets also have to invest in charging management software to adequately maintain charging schedules for multiple vehicles. With propane autogas, you have options for infrastructure setups that keep your costs under control. Outside of routine maintenance, propane autogas infrastructure doesn’t require additional costs after installation.

Efficient Refueling With Autogas

Charging electric fleets around the clock means keeping those vehicles off the road for long periods of time. And once they are fully charged, their range is limited compared to an autogas-powered vehicle. Refueling a propane autogas vehicle is safe and quick, taking a similar amount of time as fueling with gasoline or diesel.

Converting Engines To Autogas

For fleet owners who want the cost benefits of propane autogas but need the flexibility of a gasoline backup or who aren’t ready to purchase new vehicles, EPA-certified bi-fuel conversion kits can be installed on existing vehicles. They provide the same type of horsepower, torque and towing capacity as conventionally fueled versions of the same models, all while holding down operating costs.

Explore Autogas Services

If you’re interested in powering your fleet with propane, your local propane company can help. You can look for a supplier here or a conversion installer here.

Ask about converting your vehicles, setting up a propane fueling station at your property or arranging for on-site fueling on a regular schedule.

Feel free to reach out to a conversion installer or an autogas supplier to learn about all of the options you have for your business.