The CleanFleet Alternative Fuels Demonstration Project

The CleanFleet project was a 24-month demonstration of five alternative motor fuels and control gasoline in 111 FedEx delivery vans. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-supplied vans from Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge were operated on compressed natural gas, propane gas, California Phase 2 reformulated gasoline (RFG), and methanol (M-85 containing 15 percent RFG). Electric vans on loan from Southern California Edison were also used by FedEx. Data were gathered on fleet operations, vehicle emissions, and facility and vehicle capital and operating costs. This paper focusses on implementation of 24 months of fleet operations. Vehicle activity is documented for each fuel. Practical issues resolved during the demonstration for use of each fuel by a commercial fleet operator are summarized. Topics include procuring vehicles, fueling vehicles, storing vehicles indoors, maintaining vehicles, and training drivers and mechanics.