By Bradford Wernle, Crain News Service
DETROIT (July 31, 2013) — Ford Motor Co. will offer the 2014 F-150 with an equipment package that allows the popular pickup to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquid propane gas (LPG).
The option will be available on F-150s powered by Ford's 3.7-liter V-6 engine.
The factory-installed prep package includes hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings designed to operate on either natural gas or regular gasoline using separate fuel systems, Ford said July 31.
The package—available when the 2014 F-150 debuts this fall—will cost $315.
"Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel's low price and clean emissions," Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager, said in a statement. "With the money saved using CNG, customers could start to see payback on their investment in as little as 24 to 36 months."
Ford works with six upfitters, known as "qualified vehicle modifiers," to install CNG/LPG fuel systems. The car maker will honor the engine warranty for a system installed by one of the six companies.