Ford announced it is offering a gaseous-fuel prep option for the 2016 F-150 equipped with the 5.0-liter V8 engine, making it the only light-duty pickup capable of running on compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane.
The 2016 Ford F-150 with 5.0-liter V8 engine will be available to order this summer with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes upgraded intake and exhaust valves and valve seats.
“We surveyed customers likely to use natural gas or propane, and 72 percent told us they want to have these alternative-fuel capabilities available on F-150 with the 5.0-liter V8 engine,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager. “We expect the gaseous-fuel prep package will be even more popular than it was on the 2014 F-150 with the 3.7-liter V6 engine, given the capability of the 2016 F-150 5.0-liter V8.”
2016 Ford F-150 trucks running on CNG or propane will be able to tow the same amount as if they were running on gasoline and payload capability stays the same as well – minus the weight of the installed CNG or propane system.
The CNG/propane engine prep from the factory costs $315 before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits cost approximately $7,500 to $9,500 depending on fuel tank capacity.
As of April 30, 2015, CNG sells for an average of $2.11 per gallon of gasoline equivalent and is as low as $1 in some parts of the country, which means significant savings can be achieved compared with unleaded regular fuel, and even greater savings compared with diesel. The national average for unleaded regular fuel is $2.58 per gallon, while diesel sells for an average $2.81 per gallon.
Other advantages of CNG are cleaner emissions by around 20 percent compared to similar gasoline-powered vehicles, as well as the fact that approximately 85 percent of the CNG used in the United States is produced domestically.
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