Dearborn, Michigan – Ford will offer the 2016 F-150 with an available gaseous-fuel prep package that enables 5L V8-powered models to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane. Ford upgraded intake and exhaust valves and valve seats to prepare the engine for gaseous fuels.
“We surveyed customers likely to use natural gas or propane, and 72% told us they want to have these alternative-fuel capabilities available on F-150 with the 5L V8 engine,” says Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “We expect the gaseous-fuel prep package will be even more popular than it was on the 2014 F-150 with the 3.7L V6 engine.”
2016 F-150 trucks running on CNG or propane will be able to tow the same amount as if they were running on gasoline. Payload capability is the same as well – minus the weight of the installed CNG or propane system.
CNG/propane engine prep from the factory costs $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.
Ford has sold more than 57,000 CNG/propane-prepped vehicles since 2009. Sales have grown each of the last five years. Ford sold a record 16,821 commercial vehicles with CNG/propane gaseous engine-prep packages in 2014, and 2015 is shaping up to be an even stronger year.
“The growth in interest for CNG/propane-prepped vehicles shows a shift in fleet customers’ mindsets,” says Dick Cupka, Ford commercial vehicle sustainability leader. “They are becoming more forward-thinking about alternative fuels, taking into account their total cost of ownership and looking for ways to reduce their vehicle emissions.”
The most popular vehicles for CNG/propane prep packages are F-Series Super Duty trucks, while prep kits for the 2014 F-150 exceeded expectations by more than 40%. Ford sold more than 2,000 units in less than a year.
The 2015 Ford Transit has sold 836 CNG/propane-prepped vans and wagons since it became available in the United States in June 2014. Sales of CNG/propane-prepped small 2015 Transit Connect vans and wagons have hit 838, already surpassing the 762 vehicles sold in the 2014 model year.
Source: Ford Motor Co.