Pay-TV provider DISH Network Corp. announced at the NTEA's 2013 Work Truck Show in Indianapolis that it will roll out 200 ROUSH CleanTech propane autogas-fueled Ford E-250 cargo vans in its fleet in 2013.

The satellite-TV company estimated that these new propane autogas-powered vehicles will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 12.5 million lbs. over the lifetime of the fleet’s operation when compared with gasoline-powered counterparts. DISH said its new alt-fuel vans will support its residential and commercial customer service in Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.

“These clean-burning propane autogas vehicles are better for our environment, our communities, and operate more efficiently,” said Erik Carlson, executive vice president of service and installation at DISH. “DISH expects to save about $2,500 per vehicle in annual lifecycle costs due to a 55% reduction in fuel costs and the cleaner burning properties of propane autogas.”

ROUSH’s Todd Mouw commented on DISH Network’s decision, saying “Economical, clean-burning propane autogas is an excellent option for fleets looking for more efficient operation,” said Todd Mouw, vice president of sales and marketing for ROUSH CleanTech. “Propane autogas is sourced domestically and is cheaper per mile to operate.”

DISH said since private, on-site propane autogas refueling infrastructure is cost-effective; it makes it economical for DISH to install refueling stations at each of the company’s initial deployment locations. The company added that more than 90% of the propane used in the U.S. comes from domestic sources of natural gas and petroleum. DISH also said the domestic nature of the fuel and related technology influenced its decision to go with propane autogas. ROUSH added that its supply chain is primarily based in North America.

“As one of the nation’s largest fleets with locations across the country, we believe we can have a real impact by putting a viable alternative fuel to work for us,” DISH's Carlson said.