Ford Motor Company is expanding its line of fuel efficient, low-GHG commercial vehicles and says by 2012, half of its commercial portfolio will be capable of running on alternative fuels.

The wide variety of vans and trucks with alternative-fuel capability is backed by support for customers looking to switch their vehicles from gasoline power to another fuel, such as compressed natural gas or propane.

"No other manufacturer offers the range of vehicles and alternative-fuel solutions combined with comprehensive support," said Len Deluca, director, Ford Commercial Truck. "We're bringing our commercial customers the solutions they need in this ever-competitive environment."

While no single alternative fuel solution will fit every customer, we recognize that fleets are no longer buying vehicles just to look green," says Ford's Chief Engineer, Rob Stevens. "They are seeing real benefits in terms of reduced lifetime operating costs, reduced emissions, lower fuel or energy costs, reduced maintenance and quieter operation."

With the wide variety of requirements for commercial vehicles - such as application, payload and driving cycle - Ford has developed an expansive suite of vehicles and alternative-fuel choices. It includes:

Transit Connect: CNG/LPG, BEV*

E-Series cargo vans: Flex fuel, CNG/LPG

E-Series cutaways (stripped chassis): Flex fuel, CNG/LPG, hybrid, BEV

E-Series wagons: Flex fuel, CNG/LPG

F-Series Super Duty: Flex fuel, biodiesel, CNG/LPG,

F-350-F-550 Super Duty: Flex fuel, biodiesel, CNG/LPG, hybrid, plug-in hybrid

F-650/ F-750 Super Duty: Biodiesel, CNG/LPG

F53, F59 (stripped chassis): CNG/LPG

*BEV=Battery Electric Vehicle

"Our range of choices helps ensure customers can find the right product that best suits their needs," said Deluca.

For example, a BEV might be appropriate for customers with multiple short trips over the course of a day totaling less than 100 miles. CNG, LPG and flex-fuel vehicles have a range of about 300 miles before needing to be refueled. Biodiesel and hybrid vehicles stretch the range even further, up to 500 miles.

From Gas to Gaseous Fuel

Ford has developed and tested a CNG/LPG Gaseous Engine Prep Package to be installed by preferred upfitters, who install the CNG/LPG tanks and hardware. The engine comes with hardened exhaust valves and valve seats for improved wear resistance and durability for gaseous fuel systems, and Ford engineers work with the upfit companies to ensure consistent and reliable performance.

The new engine calibration maintains engine operating limits as specified for cylinder pressures, piston temperatures and engine speed, among others. Ford maintains the engine and powertrain warranty (five years/50,000 miles) and the upfitter is responsible for the system component warranty.

From Diesel to Gas

Ford's popular F-650 cab and chassis will soon be available with a 6.8-liter, 3-valve, V-10 rated at 362 horsepower with 457 lb ft of torque.

Todd Kaufman, Ford's F-Series marketing manager told attendees at NTEA Work Truck Show the timing couldn't be better for a gasoline powertrain in a medium-duty chassis.

"With diesel prices now outstripping gasoline by more than ten cents a gallon in many parts of the country, the timing is perfect for a gasoline powertrain in a medium-duty truck," he said.

It will be available in three cab types: regular cab, four-door super-cab, and a four-door crew cab. It will feature steer-axle ratings of 8500 and 10,000 lbs, and rear axle ratings of 13-, 15-, 17-, and 19,000 lbs. As well, Ford is bringing the 21,000-lb rear axle over from the 750 series, giving customers GVW rating choices all the way from 20,500 lb up to 30,000 lb, with a 33,000-lb GCW rating of 33,000.

The 6R140 double overdrive 6-speed transmission -- currently used behind the PowerStroke diesel with ratings of 400 hp 800 lb ft torque -- is standard, and an optional PTO is available.

"The transmission is highly capable and will more than handle the V-10 gasoline engine," Kaufman says.

At time of order, dealers will be able to configure this vehicle with a gaseous fuel prep package to operate on compressed natural gas.

"Difference between gas and diesel in pure acquisition costs is about $8,000," Kaufman notes. "That's a big number, and this truck is highly capable. For the money, you're giving up nothing and saving a lot."

It will be available as a straight truck only at the time of launch. There is no air compressor available on the engine, so it's not suitable for tractor-trailer combinations.

It's comes in two chassis heights; Pro-Loader with 19.5-in. wheels for curb-side unloading or dock height with 22-in wheels.

The truck will be available to order in October 2011, with production scheduled to begin late Q1 2012. It will be a 2012 model-year truck.