Schwan’s Home Service deploys autogas delivery trucks

Schwan’s Home Service will deploy 200 Roush CleanTech E-450 cutaways and plans to lease an additional 400 units by the end of 2018.

Each frozen-food delivery truck is equipped with a Ford 6.8-liter V10 engine and a Roush CleanTech propane autogas fuel system. The company will deploy the first 200 vehicles in May.

“Propane-powered vehicles have played a key role in Schwan’s product delivery for more than 40 years,” says Danielle Stariha, senior manager of fleet and procurement for Schwan’s Home Service. “Total cost of ownership for propane autogas is much lower than traditional fuels and other alternative technologies, which is why we are continually implementing the newest propane technology.”

Implementing alternative fuels is one way Schwan’s Home Service helps meet its corporate environmental objectives, the company says. Each propane autogas truck emits about 91,000 less pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over its lifetime than a gasoline-powered vehicle.

“Schwan’s long-time investment in propane autogas is a testament to the staying power of this economical and domestically produced transportation fuel,” says Todd Mouw, president of Roush CleanTech.

The new trucks also offer drivers increased comfort due to their quieter engines, which leads to greater driver satisfaction, according to Ron Moore, vice president of warehouse and fleet operations for Schwan’s Home Service.