MICHIGAN'S ONE-STOP-SHOP
for new propane buses and conversions
725 Propane Buses Run in Michigan
Propane Bus Options
STEP 1
Bus Types
Cost Per Mile - Type C
| Fuel | Cost/Mile |
|---|---|
|
Propane |
$0.63 |
|
Electricity |
$2.02 |
|
Diesel |
$0.86 |
|
Gasoline |
$0.85 |
|
Natural Gas |
$0.76 |
Cost Per Mile - Type C
| Fuel | Cost/Mile |
|---|---|
|
Propane |
$0.63 |
|
Electricity |
$2.02 |
|
Diesel |
$0.86 |
|
Gasoline |
$0.85 |
|
Natural Gas |
$0.76 |
More Uptime
MINIMIZE
Unexpected Downtime for Repairs
SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE
in Cold Weather
Lowest Total Cost-of-Ownership
NO
Volatile Pricing
NO
Additional Fluids or Filters
Safer for Kids, Teachers & Parents
MORE PLEASANT
Journey for Everyone
NOTICEABLY QUIETER
Operation than Diesel
More Uptime
MINIMIZE
Unexpected Downtime for Repairs
SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE
in Cold Weather
Lowest Total Cost-of-Ownership
NO
Volatile Pricing
NO
Additional Fluids or Filters
Safer for Kids, Teachers & Parents
MORE PLEASANT
Journey for Everyone
NOTICEABLY QUIETER
Operation than Diesel
No more black smoke for kids
With propane fuel (autogas), school districts are providing healthier environments for students, drivers, and their neighborhoods by substantially reducing tailpipe emissions.
Propane is a clean-burning alternative fuel that’s been used for decades to power light, medium, and heavy-duty propane vehicles.
Source: AFDC.energy.gov
Propane Out-preforms Electric
See the numbers for yourself
The affordability and scalability of propane autogas refueling options are unmatched compared with electric. These examples compare the typical expected costs of propane fuel (autogas) refueling infrastructure with comparable recharging infrastructure for electric school bus fleets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the EPA considers propane as a clean alternative fuel under the Energy Policy Act of 1992.
Propane autogas vehicles cut significantly more NOx (Nitrogen oxides) and greenhouse gas emissions compared to diesel and gasoline. The EPA considers propane a clean fuel. Propane is known as the number one alternative fuel around the world.
Propane vehicles have been widely used and refined for decades, and a propane vehicle's power, acceleration, and cruising speed are similar to those of conventionally fueled vehicles.
There are over 700 propane buses and over 33,000 propane vehicles in operation around the state of Michigan. Twenty-five school districts are currently using propane in their bus fleet, but that number is growing.
Propane Autogas is nontoxic, has a lower flammability range than conventional gasoline, and odorized for easy detection. Propane containers are equipped with safety devices, including pressure-relief valves, shut-off valves that detect fuel line ruptures, and overfill protection. As well as being constructed from carbon steel and are 20 times more puncture-resistant than conventional gasoline and diesel tanks.
When you switch your bus fleet to propane, you not only save on fuel costs, but maintenance costs as well. Propane does not require extra fuel conditioners like diesel, requires less oil by volume, does not require an engine block heater and engines last longer due to propane’s clean properties.
The Michigan Propane Gas Association offers a $4,000 rebate (up to $16,000) to Michigan residents that are either buying a new propane vehicle (including school buses), or converting their vehicle to propane.
STEP 2
Propane Engines & Conversions
Micro Bird G5 School Bus
Peak Power & Torque
| Chassis Type | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|
|
2022 E-350 |
325 hp @ 3750 rpm |
450 ft-lbs @ 3750 rpm |
|
2022 E-450 |
300 HP @ 3,800 |
425 lb-ft @ 3,250 |
Blue Bird Type C School Bus
Peak Power & Torque
| Governed Speed | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|
|
4250 rpm |
320 hp |
460 lb-ft |
Prins is a European manufacturer and their distributor in the US is Alliance Autogas.
Any 2015 ICE or newer can be converted.
Qualifying Models: Ford, Dodge, GMC, RAM, Toyota, and many more.
2012 or newer ICE vehicle can be converted.
Qualifying Models: Ford
2020 and older vehicles can be converted.
Qualifying Models: Ford, Lincoln and Mercury, Chevrolet and GMC*
* Certain engines qualify. See EPA certified list.
STAG Autogas Systems offers installations for both engines with indirect and direct fuel injection. 2019 or older model Autogas system for direct injection are dedicated to a specific engine code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vehicles equipped with Roush CleanTech’s propane autogas fuel systems retain equivalent horsepower, torque, towing capacity and warranty coverage as gas and diesel counterparts.
Propane shines in cold temperatures. It does not require a block heater unlike diesel and heats the bus up quicker in the cold.
The average mileage a Type C propane school bus can get on one tank of propane is 300-350 miles.
On average, the size of a propane tank on a Type C school bus holds about 67-93 gallons of usable propane.
Yes, Roush CleanTech offers online, onsite and a 2-day training factory workshop for your bus mechanics to get trained to work on propane buses.
On average, a Type C propane school bus costs about $108,000.
Once you have decided to make the switch to propane, reach out to your local propane supplier or propane bus dealer and they will get you started on converting your fleet to propane.
STEP 3
Fueling & Infrastructure
Private (fleet owned or propane supplier owned) and Public Options Available
| Options | Onsite Standard Private station | Onsite Advanced Private station |
|---|---|---|
|
Fleet Size
|
Best for a fleet of less than 50 |
Best for 50+ vehicles |
|
Set-Up
|
Onsite 1,000 - 3,000-gallon tank |
Larger gallon tank, canopy & multiple dispensers |
|
Propane Supplier Owns Infrastructure |
The fleet is responsible for site preparation: crash protection and electrical.
Cost for Fleet: $1,500-$15,000 (site preparation) |
The fleet is responsible for site preparation: crash protection and electrical for a two-dispenser setup.
Cost for Fleet: $5,000-$75,000 (site preparation) |
|
Propane Supplier Owns Infrastructure |
The fleet will need to account for purchasing the propane tank, pump, motor, and dispenser.
Cost for Fleet: $20,000-$60,000 (infrastructure) + $1,500-$15,000 (site preparation) |
The fleet is responsible for site preparation: crash protection and electrical for a two-dispenser setup.
Cost for Fleet: $60,000-$225,000 (infrastructure) + $5,000-$75,000 (site preparation) |
|
Private or Public Network |
|---|
|
Fleets with limited space, or fleets needing more fueling locations along their routes can take advantage of this option with no infrastructure investment. Network refueling stations are accessible 24/7 through a card lock system.
If a network is not currently available in your area, a propane supplier may create one for your fleet, if it’s large enough. Alternatively, multiple fleets can team up to provide adequate load for requesting a refueling network. |
Onsite Standard Private station
- Best for a fleet of less than 5o
- Onsite 1,000 – 3,000-gallon tank
Option 1: Propane Supplier Owns Infrastructure
The fleet is responsible for site preparation: crash protection and electrical.
Cost for Fleet: $1,500-$15,000 (site preparation)
Option 2: Fleet Owns Infrastructure
The fleet will need to account for purchasing the propane tank, pump, motor, and dispenser.
Cost for Fleet: $20,000-$60,000 (infrastructure) + $1,500-$15,000 (site preparation)
Onsite Advanced Private station
- Best for 50+ vehicles
- Larger gallon tank, canopy & multiple dispensers
Option 1: Propane Supplier Owns Infrastructure
The fleet is responsible for site preparation: crash protection and electrical for a two-dispenser setup.
Cost for Fleet: $5,000-$75,000 (site preparation)
Option 2: Fleet Owns Infrastructure
The fleet is responsible for site preparation: crash protection and electrical for a two-dispenser setup.
Cost for Fleet: $60,000-$225,000 (infrastructure) + $5,000-$75,000 (site preparation)
Private or Public Network
Fleets with limited space, or fleets needing more fueling locations along their routes can take advantage of this option with no infrastructure investment. Network refueling stations are accessible 24/7 through a card lock system.
If a network is not currently available in your area, a propane supplier may create one for your fleet, if it’s large enough. Alternatively, multiple fleets can team up to provide adequate load for requesting a refueling network.
Work With Your Propane Provider to
Get the Lowest Cost Per Mile
Work With Your Propane Provider to Get the Lowest Cost Per Mile
There are 380 Propane Marketers in Michigan, Use the Map to Find One in Your Local Area
Propane Public Fueling Stations
& Service Centers
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike diesel's one-year shelf life and gasoline's 3 to 6 month shelf life, propane can be stored indefinitely so it is highly effective and convenient for both residential and commercial sectors.
Contact your local propane marketer and they can offer an inexpensive lease of the tank, pump, and dispensing equipment in return for a fuel supply contract. Or, they can contact an infrastructure manufacture to purchase your own fueling equipment and shop around for propane fueling prices.
STEP 4
Funding Options
Receive up to $16,000 from the MPGA
The Michigan Propane Gas Association (MPGA) is offering entities $4,000 rebates—up to $16,000—when purchasing a new propane vehicle or converting an existing vehicle to propane. Rebates are available first come, first serve, while funding lasts.
Vehicle qualifications include:
- Any 2019 or newer OEM vehicles converted to a propane Autogas system (U.S. EPA approved)
- Vehicles registered and operated in Michigan
- Propane owners do not qualify however employees of propane companies do qualify
- Vehicle Information
- Applicant information
- Propane Marketer information
- Attach invoice for new propane vehicle or propane retrofit system
Funding qualifications include:
- Limit of four (4) rebates per single entity
- All eligible purchases or propane retrofit installations must occur within 2023
- Before receiving an MPGA Autogas rebate, all federal and state incentives must be applied, and funds may be used for incremental cost of propane vehicle vs. gasoline or diesel vehicle only
- Rebate program closes Dec. 31, 2023
Return completed application in one-of-three ways:
- Email to: mpga@kdafirm.com
- Fax to: (517) 485-9408
- Mail to:
MPGA
629 W. Hillsdale St.
Lansing, MI 48933
Questions? Contact the Rebate Team: (517) 312-0097
Deadline: May 30, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. (ET)
Includes propane infrastructure in urban and rural communities in publicly accessible locations, including downtown areas and local neighborhoods, particularly in underserved and disadvantaged communities. The CFI Program is making up to $700 million (FY 2022 $300 million and FY 2023 $400 million) available.
CONTACT:
Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant
CFIgrants@dot.gov
NOW CLOSED
Includes propane vehicles. Buses, medium heavy-duty or heavy heavy-duty trucks, marine engines, locomotives, non-road engines, equipment, or vehicles used in: construction, handling of cargo (including at a port, airport, or train yard), agriculture, mining, industry and energy production.
A total of $375,960 is available. All grant proposals should be between $25,000 (the minimum) and $375,960 (the maximum).
CONTACT:
Irene Queen
QueenI1@Michigan.gov
517-420-3230
CLOSED
Includes propane transit buses and infrastructure. The federal share of eligible capital costs is 80 percent of the net capital project cost, unless the grant recipient requests a lower percentage.
CONTACT:
Low-No/Bus Grant Program
ftalownobusnofo@dot.gov
202-366-5094
COMING SOON - TBD
Includes propane vehicles. Eligible diesel vehicles, engines and equipment include: School buses, Class 5 – Class 8 heavy-duty highway vehicles, Locomotive engines, Marine engines, Non-road engines, equipment or vehicles used in construction, handling of cargo (including at ports or airports), agriculture, mining or energy production (including stationary generators and pumps).
CONTACT:
DERA Helpline
dera@epa.gov
877-623-2322
Frequently Asked Questions
The Michigan Propane Gas Association offers a $4,000 rebate (up to $16,000) to Michigan residents that are either buying a new propane vehicle (including school buses), or converting their vehicle to propane.
- Entities residing in Michigan where on-road vehicles are registered and operated in Michigan
- First time purchasing a new propane vehicle or converting an existing vehicle in 2023
- Any 2019 or newer OEM vehicle or lawn mowers converted to a propane autogas system that is EPA approved
- New vehicles have no more than 5,000 miles.
Yes, we encourage all existing fleets to apply for the MPGA’s propane vehicle rebate. However, the rebate program rewards new propane vehicle owners as a higher priority, and then considers existing propane fleets at the end of the year.
You can purchase propane vehicles straight from the manufacture or your local dealership; just let them know you would like to purchase a propane school bus.