Other Cost Considerations When Considering Conversion of a Fleet to CNG or Purchasing CNG Vehicles
- Energy density directly impacts efficiency. CNG has lower energy density than other fuels and thus is less efficient. According to Exxon Mobil, CNG contains nearly 70 percent less energy per gallon equivalent than gasoline or diesel. As a result, CNG vehicles are less powerful.1
- The range (driving distance) of the vehicles is limited due to lower energy density.2
- Houston Metro CNG buses and maintenance facilities have been specially equipped with gas leak detectors, temperature sensors, and fire suppression – all considerations that add to the costs of CNG vehicles. 3
How Much For A New Bus?
Add 14.3% When deciding whether a CNG vehicle or fleet is the right choice, consider that the cost of the vehicles is higher than gasoline or diesel-fueled vehicles. The cost of the fuel is lower, however so the payout will come sooner. 4
On April 21, 2015 Some of our project team members visited Houston Metro’s Fallbrook Bus Maintenance and Operations Center where Jeffrey Long, Metro’s Superintendent of Bus Maintenance gave us a tour and helped us to understand more of the costs that accompany maintaining CNG vehicles. The photo shows Cory, Danria, and Randy members getting a sneak peek at Metro’s brand new fleet of CNG buses, which will go into service in September. Mr. Long explained that the buses hold 140 GGE of CNG fuel and can easily run 500 miles on one fill, which takes 10-11 minutes to complete. Operating costs, he said, are expected to be $1.40 per mile and the buses will run between 220 and 400 miles per day. 3
Add 14.3% When deciding whether a CNG vehicle or fleet is the right choice, consider that the cost of the vehicles is higher than gasoline or diesel-fueled vehicles. The cost of the fuel is lower, however so the payout will come sooner. 4
On April 21, 2015 Some of our project team members visited Houston Metro’s Fallbrook Bus Maintenance and Operations Center where Jeffrey Long, Metro’s Superintendent of Bus Maintenance gave us a tour and helped us to understand more of the costs that accompany maintaining CNG vehicles. The photo shows Cory, Danria, and Randy members getting a sneak peek at Metro’s brand new fleet of CNG buses, which will go into service in September. Mr. Long explained that the buses hold 140 GGE of CNG fuel and can easily run 500 miles on one fill, which takes 10-11 minutes to complete. Operating costs, he said, are expected to be $1.40 per mile and the buses will run between 220 and 400 miles per day. 3
Cohen, Ken. 'Natural Gas Cars: A Look Under The Hood'. ExxonMobil's Perspectives Blog. N.p., 2012. Web. 3 Apr. 2015.
Morgan, Tom. 'Energy Density Matters: Getting The Most Bang For Your Buck'. Drillinginfo. N.p., 2015. Web. 3 Apr. 2015.
Long, Jeffery. Interview And Tour Of Houston Metro's Fallbrook Maintenance Facility. 2015. in person.
2013 Public Transportation Fact Book, 64th edition. American Public Transportation Association. October 2013.