How the bobtail powers the industry and drives opportunity

The bobtail. You could call it the workhorse of the propane industry. In fact, we’ve heard industry members give it that moniker.

Other than maybe the barbecue bottle, the bobtail symbolizes the nature of the propane industry and what it means for millions of customers.

“Anywhere you need the fuel, we’ll get it to you,” says Colin Sueyres, president and CEO of the Western Propane Gas Association.

“The bobtail typifies that mindset of: We are the boots on the ground giving you what you need so that your family is safe, warm and healthy.”

This issue of LP Gas celebrates the bobtail and those who make a living in and around the vehicle.
“There’s non-propane revenue, service, parts revenue, but the bobtail is what the industry is predicated on – the delivery of propane to the container,” says Mike Walters of Superior Energy Systems and a former driver.

The bobtail has come a long way since the first one was built in 1928, industry timelines show. By exploring the “anatomy of the bobtail,” we set out to show the impressive features available all around the vehicle. It’s a feat of engineering and manufacturing, what the talented employees of this industry have designed and developed over the years.

Also within this truck section, you’ll find another feature of interest: how female bobtail drivers are excelling in the propane industry.

Montana-based Energy Partners Propane brought the story to our attention – proud of its “standout hires” who are thriving behind the wheel. While men have traditionally dominated the truck driving industries, this story, beginning on page 28, reveals the importance of creating more opportunities for women while addressing the industry’s need for more drivers.

We hope you enjoy these feature stories, as well as the other news, notes, products and perspectives from the truck sector.