Ford Offers NGV-Equipped 2014 F-150
Ford has begun production of the new 2014 F-150 at the Kansas City Assembly Plant that can run on either compressed natural gas or propane, in addition to regular gas. The natural gas vehicle with a 3.7-liter V-6 engine allows for a total fuel range of more than 750 miles, using the combined tanks of alternative fuels and gasoline. Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg combined.
The NGV-equipped F-150 models come from the factory pre-installed with hardened valves, valve seats and pistons and rings at a cost of $315, Ford says. Upon delivery, customers can choose a Ford-qualified vehicle modifier who will supply the fuel tanks, lines and special fuel injectors. Depending on the size of the tank, these modifications can cost from $6,000 to $9,500, Ford estimates.
The benefits to using CNG include reduced fuel costs compared to regular gasoline (CNG runs about $2.10 per gallon equivalent, on average) and lower greenhouse gas emissions (up to a 30 percent reduction, the EPA estimates). In addition, nearly 20 states are or will soon be offering rebates or tax incentives for CNG-capable vehicles.
The introduction of this CNG F-150 will give Ford eight commercial vehicles that can run on CNG capability by next summer, the most of any automaker. Ford says it is on pace to sell more 15,000 CNG vehicles this year, which would represent a 25 percent increase versus 2012. We drove one of the first natural gas F-150s at the Texas Truck Rodeo and found the drivability impressive.
Ford offers an extensive lineup of alternative fuel and electric vehilces all up and down their car, truck, and commercial vehicles. Although this is from last year (as is the chart information below) and does not include the new F-150 NGV options, it will give you a good idea of the portfolio.
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