Propane Autogas Transit Vehicles

Propane transit van refueling with a propane tank in the background

Propane autogas is the leading alternative fuel for the paratransit application. Propane vehicles help transit agencies:

  • Meet strict emissions guidelines
  • Access federal and state funding
  • Manage budgets
  • Save taxpayer dollars
  • Operate sustainably

The U.S. is rich in propane. More than 90% of U.S. propane supplies come from domestic production, making propane autogas a readily available alternative to imported oil.

Four major system manufacturers have vehicles for this market— Alliance Autogas, Freightliner, ICOM and ROUSH CleanTech.

Learn about the many benefits Delaware Transit Corporation and San Diego Metropolitan Transit System now enjoy after converting their paratransit fleets to propane.

Propane Autogas for Transit

Propane autogas saves money on fuel, maintenance and infrastructure.

Transitioning to propane autogas can be done quickly and cost-effectively; fleet operators will see benefits immediately.

  • Savings of 40-50% on fuel.
  • Lower costs for oil changes and routine maintenance.
  • Zero downtime when the weather is freezing, with no risk of “gelling.”
  • Increased driver and passenger satisfaction due to a quieter, more enjoyable ride.
  • Low- and no-cost opportunities to install onsite fueling infrastructure and lock-in fuel prices.

How much could you be saving? Determine your cost per mile and return on investment with propane autogas vehicles with the Fuel Savings Calculator.

Propane autogas is clean for a healthier and sustainable future.

Propane autogas vehicles meet the strictest emissions standards and better protect your agency’s community from environmental and health issues.

Propane autogas meets all EPA and CARB guidelines. Propane is a non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and non-corrosive fuel. It emits fewer greenhouse gases; less nitrogen oxides; less carbon monoxide; and fewer particulate emissions compared with gasoline and diesel.

Results from a study out of West Virginia University’s Center of Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions show that propane autogas buses reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 96% in real-world applications.

Free Propane Transit Webinar

Transit agencies are turning to propane vehicles to support their environmental goals and lower their operating costs.

This free, 90-minute webinar covers:

  • Firsthand experience from a transit agency that operates propane vehicles in its fleet.
  • Health, safety and cost benefits of adopting propane vehicles.
  • Propane fueling and infrastructure options.
  • Available funding from the state — and how to receive it.

Propane Funding Opportunities

Missouri Propane Education & Research Council
MOPERC offers rebates of $2,000 per propane bus, up to 10 per agency, at the time of delivery. This money can be used to pay down the cost of the bus, for fuel or infrastructure, or used for however your agency wants. Cost-reducing propane transit buses put money back into your budget.

*Incentives subject to terms and conditions, contact MOPERC for details.

Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust
The state of Missouri received $42 million from the Volkswagen emissions settlement to fund transportation projects that reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Propane autogas transit buses are eligible for these funds.

State Propane Suppliers
The state’s propane providers and wholesale suppliers offer various financial incentives and support.

Federal Government

The U.S. Energy Department provides various federal incentive programs and tax credits to encourage the use of propane autogas, classified as a clean alternative fuel under the Clean Air Act.

Through the alternative fuel tax credit, propane vehicles can receive a 37 cents per gallon rebate, and up to $30,000 in infrastructure support.

The Diesel Emissions Reduction Act also funds clean alternatives to diesel.

Propane Buses Are Ready Today

Propane vehicles can quickly and easily be incorporated into your transit fleet.