Fraikin launches an LPG bi-fuel vans deal to cut costs and emissions

THE ALTERNATIVE fuel market for light commercials gets a boost as Fraikin launches an LPG bi-fuel vans deal to cut costs and emissions, targeting both public sector and company operators.

Fraikin has teamed up with engine conversion specialist Alternatech to become the company’s preferred contract hire partner, offering full service contract hire packages on bi-fuel LPG-petrol vans.

The move is timely as London leads a drive for low emissions among cities with air pollution problems that will hit many conventional vans. For the details on that click here and for the alternatives to this LPG initiative click here.

Fraikin’s confidence in the bi-fuel conversion means customers can now benefit from a light commercial vehicle that reduces both running costs and impact on environmental quality – with all compliance, repair and maintenance and administration handled by a true fleet expert.

Fraikin sales director Colin Melvin says:

“Our move into bi-fuel vans on full service contract hire means that we can offer even greater support to public sector and company fleets. It’s the best of all worlds for van customers – quality servicing, low operating costs, low environmental impact, and complete peace of mind.”

With LPG prices currently around half that of diesel and petrol, the bi-fuel vans are ideal for operators such as local authorities, which need to keep operating costs as low as possible and minimise the impact on the environment, while reaping the benefits of full-service support.

Alternatech has put the first Ford Transit Courier conversions through their paces, with emissions testing at TNO in the Netherlands, demonstrating a 12.9 per cent reduction in CO₂ versus its purely petrol-powered counterpart, and 52.6 per cent less NO_X – a vital concern in cities where vehicle emissions can have a substantial impact on public health.

Alternatech’s commercial director Will Putter says: “We’re delighted with the test results for our conversion work – it’s proof that we’ve delivered vehicles that have a reduced impact on climate change and air quality, and with a low total cost of ownership.

“By working with Fraikin, we can ensure as many fleets as possible have access to better vehicles, better operating costs and better environmental outcomes.”

Fraikin is offering bi-fuel vans on a full-service contract hire package where all servicing, maintenance, administration and documentation are handled by the fleet service provider’s expert team, leaving customers free to focus on their core activities. Additionally, Fraikin can also provide a complete fuelling infrastructure at a customer’s depots.

As Fraikin launches an LPG bi-fuel vans deal the company is currently making a bi-fuel Ford Transit Courier demonstrator available to fleet customers for appraisal.