ROUSH CleanTech has achieved California Air Resources Board certification for its 2023 model year propane engines, which emit ultra-low nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions at 0.02 grams per brake horsepower-hour.
Propane Autogas Environmental Benefits and Regulatory Compliance
Previously an optional feature, the low NOx emissions package is now standard across all ROUSH CleanTech propane engines. These engines exceed 2023 regulations by emitting 90% less NOx emissions and are 60% cleaner than California's 2024 low-NOx standard, while maintaining performance and efficiency.
Nitrogen oxides, recognized as a significant contributor to environmental issues like acid rain and smog, can pose health risks, particularly for children, including asthma and respiratory problems. On the other hand, operating vehicles with ultra-low emission engines significantly improves regional air quality and mitigates various health impacts, according to the EPA.
“Customers can rest easy knowing that ROUSH CleanTech propane engines provide ultra-low NOx emissions with no added cost today. And, we are well on our way to meeting California and EPA’s emissions standards for 2027 and beyond,” said Todd Mouw, executive vice president at ROUSH CleanTech.
Incentives and Adoption Opportunities for Fleets
Fleet operators purchasing the 2023 models can take advantage of various state and federal incentives, such as the Clean School Bus Program under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, as well as the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust settlement.
ROUSH CleanTech, an alternative fuel technology company, introduced low NOx engines in 2018 and became the first manufacturer to receive CARB's ultra-low 0.02 grams per brake horsepower-hour certification for Blue Bird school buses and commercial vehicles in 2021. Mouw emphasized that the company achieved this certification ahead of regulations.
ROUSH CleanTech's latest technology and the availability of renewable propane highlight how the fuel has evolved from being merely a "bridge" to a long-term solution for transportation energy. Adopting renewable propane allows fleets to operate with comparable power and reliability to conventional propane. Additionally, renewable propane has an ultra-low carbon intensity and is carbon neutral when combusted.
Over 37,000 advanced clean vehicles equipped with ROUSH CleanTech's engines are currently on the road, including 18,500 school buses in 1,000 U.S. school districts. Mouw reaffirmed ROUSH CleanTech's commitment to offering environmentally friendly vehicle solutions that utilize domestically produced, cost-effective propane autogas engines.
