|
Propane is widely used in engine fuel applications, largely attributable to its advantages as a clean and energy-efficient alternative to gasoline and diesel fuel. The unique characteristics of propane can help fleet managers, farmers, commercial mowers, and other engine equipment users contain costs and meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations.
The engine fuel market accounts for approximately five percent of the total non-chemical propane used in the United States. Although propane is clearly the fuel of choice in several key segments in the engine fuel market, abundant opportunities exist for propane companies to recapture, retain, and expand propane's significant share of this important market.
PERC's engine fuel research program focuses much of its efforts on the demonstration, development, and emissions testing of propane-fueled over-the-road and off-road engines and vehicles. Specifically, it has supported the development, demonstration, and/or commercialization of propane technologies for:
- school/shuttle busses
- heavy-duty trucks
- refueling systems
- airport vehicles/equipment
- forklifts
- locomotive applications
- stationary equipment
Over-the-Road Engines/Vehicles
Emissions Testing and Modeling
Emissions testing and modeling assesses and models emissions of vehicles and engines (school and transit busses, heavy-duty trucks, etc.) that burn propane fuel. Projects also include emissions certification of propane-fueled engines and vehicles.
Engine and Vehicle Demonstration
Engine and vehicle demonstration research demonstrates vehicles and engines (bus, truck, etc.) that burn propane fuel, analyzing their performance in real-world settings such as National Parks.
Engine and Vehicle Development
Engine and vehicle development research develops vehicles and engines that burn propane fuel. Propane-fueled engines and vehicles include light-duty vehicles, medium-duty vehicles, and shuttle busses.
Fueling Infrastructure
Fueling infrastructure research investigates and establishes propane fuel corridors, develops technology, and builds refueling stations for vehicles that burn propane fuel.
Market Analysis
Market analysis assesses the market for various types of vehicles and engines that burn propane fuel (particularly in bus and truck markets), with a focus on enabling propane to grow its share of the engine fuel market.
Off-road Engines/Vehicles
Airport
Airport research assesses the market potential for, develops, and demonstrates propane engines and propane infrastructure in airport applications, particularly in non-attainment or attainment/maintenance areas.
Forklift
Forklift research investigates fuel issues impacting forklift engine systems, and develops and demonstrates propane-fueled forklift engines. PERC's forklift effort focuses on equipping the forklift industry with propane engines of the highest quality.
Locomotive
Locomotive research investigates and assesses the technical and market feasibility of using propane engines in locomotive applications.
Stationary
Stationary research focuses on the development and testing of stationary engines for off-road uses, particularly agricultural irrigation systems and standby power generation.
|
