Fleets looking for an alternative fuel option can now order 2013 model year bi-fuel pickups from GM, and some have already taken that step to help control fuel costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
“At Chesapeake Energy Corp. we are converting our fleet of more than 5,000 vehicles to run on natural gas,” said Nate Pumphrey, director of fleet operations. “Following our full conversion, we will save $11 million to $12 million annually on fuel costs. The stable price of natural gas is a benefit that helps me budget more accurately, and the fuel’s reduced emissions align with our commitment to environmental excellence.”
GM recently began producing GMC Sierra 2500 HD and Chevrolet Silverado HD bi-fuel models. Meeting all Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions requirements, the manufacturer’s Vortec 6.0L V8 engine, rated at 360 HP and 380 lb./ft. of torque, runs on gasoline or compressed natural gas (CNG) and seamlessly switches between the two fuels. The combined fuel range of the vehicles is 650 miles.
