Michigan Transit Agencies Operate Nearly 500 Buses Fueled by Propane Autogas, Saving Money & Reducing Emission

LIVONIA, Mich. — Transit agencies in Michigan are transforming public transportation with the adoption of propane autogas, a clean and cost-effective alternative fuel. With approximately 500 propane transit buses now deployed across more than 15 agencies statewide, Michigan is driving advancements in mobility while reducing environmental impact and operating costs. 

“Our state’s transit agencies are demonstrating confidence in propane autogas as a reliable and environmentally friendly fuel option for their fleets,” said Todd Mouw, executive vice president for ROUSH CleanTech, which will be exhibiting at the Michigan Public Transportation Conference, August 18–20. “With the support of Roush engineering and our commitment to sustainability, Michigan is leading the charge toward a greener, more cost-efficient transit future.” 

The agencies’ transit buses are equipped with advanced propane engine systems designed and built by the Livonia-based company. The ROUSH CleanTech Ford E-450 cutaway chassis is the only propane vehicle that has completed the Federal Transit Administration’s New Model Bus Testing Program (Altoona Testing), which allows transit fleet operators to access federal funds. Flint Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) has over 150 buses fueled by propane. 

“Propane is the ideal fuel to drive down operational costs and to carry our commitment to reducing our exposure to unstable imported fuel prices,” said Edgar H. Benning, CEO of MTA, which has been operating propane since 2011. 

All of ROUSH CleanTech’s propane buses are certified to the ultra-low nitrogen oxide levels of 20 mg/hp-hr, making them 90% cleaner than the EPA’s strictest federal emission regulation and ready to meet EPA and CARB’s 2031 standards. 

“We’re reaping the benefits of propane on a daily basis,” said Daniel Whitehouse, vice president of paratransit and on-demand services for Metro Detroit’s Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART). “Not only were we interested in the cost savings of the fuel and lower maintenance costs, we wanted to help make an impact on the environment with clean propane autogas.” 

SMART currently operates over 60 propane buses. Propane, which is classified as a clean energy source by the Environmental Protection Agency, is an American-made fuel with more than 90% of the United States’ propane supply produced domestically. 

“Not only does propane work in our climate, but the vehicles also have similar engine [to gasoline engines], backed by the manufacture warranty with the same maintenance program,” said Steve Schipper, chief operating officer of The Rapid in Grand Rapids, which runs 47 propane buses. “It is also important that propane is a domestic fuel produced here in the United States, supporting American jobs and reducing dependency on foreign oil.” 

The propane buses also lower daily operating costs due to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses. On average, propane autogas costs about 40% less than gasoline and 50% less than diesel. In addition, propane buses offer low maintenance costs, optimal drivability, long range, reliable cold-weather performance with unaided starts up to minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and a quick cabin warm-up. 

“These vehicles are quieter and warm up faster during the winter months, which is really an essential feature in regions that experience more frigid temperatures seasonally,” said Whitney Ehresman, transportation director for Allegan County Transportation. 

The agency operates seven propane buses, which are a quarter of the agency’s fleet. In their first eight months, the buses saved the agency more than $150,000 in fuel costs. More than 7,000 propane transit vehicles operate across the United States, according to the Propane Education & Research Council. 

Visit ROUSH CleanTech at the Michigan Public Transportation Conference, which concludes Aug. 20.