Roush Offers Propane Package for More Ford Trucks

The Roush-modified F-250 and E-250 use conversion kits to run on propane and reduce emissions. On average, propane vehicles produce 18 percent less greenhouse gases, emit 20 percent less nitrous oxide and lower carbon monoxide emissions by 60 percent compared with gasoline vehicles, according to Roush.

Roush first introduced propane kits for the Ford F-150 in 2007. All three of the company's propane trucks use Ford's 5.4-liter V8 engine, combined with a new fuel system that replaces the fuel rail and injectors. Switching to propane has no effect on horsepower, torque or towing capacity, says Roush.

The propane-powered F-250 is expected to go on sale at midyear. Buyers can choose either a new 2010 F-250 with a Roush-installed kit or opt to buy the kit separately for use on '09 or '10 F-250s. Buying the entire truck from Roush will cost an extra $8,995 on top of the truck's purchase price. Up to $4,500 of that cost can be recouped with a federal tax credit.

Inside Line says: Propane may not have the sex appeal of hydrogen or batteries, but the technology is here now and at a reasonable price. — Eric Tingwall, Correspondent