A Ford E-250 commercial van upfitted with a dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system is on display at the 2011 NTEA Work Truck Show and Green Truck Summit in Indianapolis.
The vehicle is being shown by Leggett & Platt Commercial Vehicle Products in partnership with Landi Renzo USA. The Work Truck Show is taking place this week.
According to Leggett & Platt, CNG is 30% cheaper than gasoline on a per-gallon equivalent. The fuel also produces 25% less CO2 emissions than gas-powered engines, the company said.
“The unwavering goal of L&P CVP continues to be that of meeting the changing needs and desires of our customers. To increase their efficiency, our customers have asked for alternative fuel options for their fleets and natural gas vehicles make economic sense,” said John Fischer, vice president-new business and product development for Leggett & Platt CVP. “We also strive to make the conversion process seamless. For Ford vans, simply check the option code on the vehicle order form to have it upfit with the CNG fuel system and delivered to a dealer anywhere in the country at no additional transportation cost. The conversion adds no significant time to the process.”
The fuel system was developed by Landi Renzo. Leggett & Platt CVP will install the system at its Elyria, OH, facility. There is the option of three or four tanks on Ford E-250 and E-350 cargo and passenger vans. The system is compliant with regulations in all 50 states.
“Landi Renzo is proud to be partnering with Leggett & Platt to bring cost-effective and efficient CNG upfits to the U.S. fleet market,” said Andrea Landi, president, Landi Renzo. “Their long history of innovation, high-quality standards and process management capabilities make them an ideal partner.”