Ford is increasing the number of commercial vehicles it builds that come equipped with factory-prepped engines that can use compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquid propane gas (LPG). Ford said the 3.7L V-6 in its all-new Transit full-size vans, wagons, cutaway, and chassis cab models will be prepped for CNG and LPG. In addition, Ford said its Transit Connect van will also have a 2.5L four-cylinder engine prepped for use with CNG.

Other CNG- and LPG-prepped vehicles in Ford’s lineup include the Transit Connect van, wagon, and taxi; Ford’s Super Duty pickups; its stripped chassis E-Series vans, wagons, and cutaways; and its medium-duty F-450, F-550, and F-650.

“Since 2009, we’ve seen the number of Built Ford Tough commercial vehicles sold with factory-prepped engines for CNG/LPG upfit increase by more than 350 percent,” said Jon Coleman, Ford Fleet Sustainability and Technology manager. “To expand power of choice for our commercial customers, we are offering CNG/LPG prepped engines in additional vehicle nameplates – from the Transit Connect compact van up to medium-duty F-650 models.”

The automaker said each Ford engine prepped for gaseous conversion has hardened valves and seals. Super Duty trucks equipped with the 6.2L V-8 have a bi-fuel intake manifold to accommodate CNG and LPG, according to Ford.

In terms of costs, CNG and LPG engine prep from Ford costs $325 before choosing a conversion system (for the CNG or LPG fuel tanks, fuel lines, and fuel injectors). Upfitting a vehicle to a CNG or LPG system costs between $9,500 and $12,500, according to Ford.