BeST Transit to convert fleet to propane autogas

March 19, 2026 By Sydney Fischer 0 Comments

Brian Raygor, national autogas business manager at Ferrellgas, speaks at BeST Transit’s propane bus launch event in February. (Photo courtesy of Roush CleanTech)

In an effort to save on operating costs and help protect the environment, BeST Transit is converting its fleet to operate on propane autogas.

Working closely with Roush CleanTech, Ferrellgas and Coach & Equipment, along with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, BeST now has six propane-fueled, fixed-route buses in service, moving the authority closer to its goal of having 70 percent of the fleet running on propane.

According to BeST Transit Executive Director Mark Hamilton, phase one of the propane conversion project includes 17 vehicles to equal 25 percent of the fleet. Six 2025 Ford E-450 buses are already in service, and four more are on the way. Seven 2026 Ford Transit 350HPs are on order and will be used for the shared ride programs. They will be dual-fuel propane and gasoline.

“For the first time ever, BeST Transit will now connect people, jobs and communities throughout the Endless Mountains with clean, reliable transit vehicles powered by propane autogas,” says Todd Mouw, executive vice president of Roush CleanTech. “BeST’s newest propane vehicles are so reliable, they were driven from our factory in Michigan to Pennsylvania without a single issue – a testament to their durability and economical value. We’re proud of the partnership forged between BeST and Roush CleanTech to launch this initiative, and we look forward to seeing residents in Bradford, Sullivan and Tioga counties thrive thanks to these advanced propane vehicles.”

According to industry experts, propane autogas is a nontoxic, non-carcinogenic and non-corrosive fuel, classified as a non-contaminant by the Environmental Protection Agency. Vehicles that run on propane emit fewer greenhouse gases, smog-producing hydrocarbons and particulate emissions than conventional fuels. Propane engine technology has progressed to the point where harmful emissions are reduced to near zero.

On average, propane autogas costs about 40 percent less than gasoline. BeST will be able to expect an average savings of 25 cents to 45 cents per mile, according to the company. Due to the fuel’s clean operation, maintenance service and costs will be reduced as well. Adding to the efficiency, partnering with Ferrellgas, BeST Transit has two on-lot propane fueling stations, one in Athens, Pennsylvania, and one in Mansfield, Pennsylvania.

Transit industry leaders and local and state government officials, including Michael Carroll, secretary of transportation for Pennsylvania, joined BeST on Feb. 18 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Guests learned about BeST Transit’s journey to propane and had an opportunity to talk to the vendors involved, as well as view the new buses, which are complete with updated logos that read “Propane-Powered.” One of the buses was placed on a lift, providing the opportunity to see a close-up view of the propane fuel system.

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