DEARBORN, MI - Ford is now offering the 2012 Super Duty F-650 with a gas engine - a class exclusive in the medium-duty truck segment. The gas variant costs thousands of dollars less than diesel trucks of its size.   Class 6 and 7 medium-duty trucks are the workhorses of municipal fleets, from single-axle dump trucks to highway plow trucks.  

"The gas-engine F-650 is a highly capable truck that is Built Ford Tough without sacrificing comfort and fuel economy," said Todd Kaufman, F-Series Chassis Cab Marketing manager.  

The F-650 6.8L Pro-Loader with 19.5-inch wheels starts at $54,840 MSRP and the F-650 6.8L Dock Height with 22-inch wheels starts at $55,065. The average vehicle savings for an F-650 gas model compared to F-650 trucks with diesels is $8,300.  

The 6.8L three-valve gas engine renders 362 horsepower and 457 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine couples with a Ford 6R410 6-speed transmission with double overdrive gears for improved fuel economy. Further, an optional gaseous fuel preparation package is available for conversion to compressed natural gas or propane fuels if desired, another option for fleets to lower their operating costs.  

The all-new F-650 is Ford-designed and Ford-built with a new interior providing comfort unexpected in a work truck.  

Now, all 2012 Ford F-650 models will have available SYNC technology to help keep drivers better connected without them having to divert their eyes from the road. Last month, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration issued a ruling prohibiting Interstate commercial truck and bus drivers from using hand-held electronics while behind the wheel. Ford SYNC allows drivers to communicate wirelessly without sacrificing safety.