Marshall MN-based Schwan’s Home Service Inc plans to take delivery of its first 200 Ford E-450 cutaway vehicles in May 2018. Each frozen food delivery truck is equipped with a Ford 6.8L V10 engine and a propane autogas fuel system provided by ROUSH CleanTech, based in Livonia MI.
Schwan’s intends to lease another 400 units by the end of this year, for a total of 600 vehicles.
Danielle Stariha, senior manager of fleet and procurement for Schwan’s Home Service, said, “Propane-powered vehicles have played a key role in Schwan’s product delivery for more than 40 years. Total cost of ownership for propane autogas is much lower than traditional fuels and other alternative technologies, which is why we are continually implementing the newest propane technology.”
Each Ford E-450 propane autogas truck emits about 91,000 fewer pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over its lifetime than a gasoline-powered vehicle. Propane autogas is a low carbon fuel that lowers greenhouse gases by up to 25%, carbon monoxide by up to 60% and nitrogen oxide by 20% versus gasoline.
Schwan’s is also concerned about the comfort of its drivers, who deliver frozen food products to residential and business clients.
“Propane-powered vehicles are much quieter than equivalent diesel-powered vehicles, which leads to higher driver satisfaction,” said Ron Moore, vice-president of warehouse and fleet operations for Schwan’s Home Service. “We deliver across the United States in various climates, conditions and terrains, and our drivers are excited about the ROUSH CleanTech-powered E-450 chassis.”
