BATA Adds Cost-Efficient Propane Buses to Fleet

“We are excited to add these new propane-powered buses to our fleet to reduce BATA’s carbon footprint and help us provide safe, cost effective, reliable, and green transportation to the people of Grand Traverse and Leelanau counties,” said BATA executive director Kelly Dunham.

The agency reports that propane provides a 24% reduction in greenhouse gas, a 20% reduction in nitrogen oxide, and a 60% reduction in carbon monoxide when compared to gasoline engines. Propane is a domestic and abundant fuel source that reduces foreign oil dependency. Propane pricing can be locked in to better manage costs and budget fuel expenses more accurately. Propane provides less wear and tear on engines and transmissions when compared to gasoline and diesel buses.

“Between rebates and lower maintenance costs we expect to see an overall cost savings of about 54%,” said Kurt Braun, BATA facilities and fleet maintenance manager. “Propane fuel buses are a tested and proven technology and a number of transit agencies in Michigan and around the country have added propane vehicles to their fleets, and we plan to add more propane vehicles in the near future.”

All five buses are already on the road and will be used across all of BATA’s routes and services. Each bus features a “Propane Powered” decal. They have been outfitted with LED lights, back-up sensors, bicycle racks, and on-board technologies such as electronic fare boxes and mobile data terminals that improve the rider and driver experiences. Funding for the buses was provided as part of BATA’s 2016 fiscal year funding from the Michigan Department of Transportation. They were provided by Roush CleanTech of Livonia, Mich.