Ford has started production of its 2014 F-150 with the ability to run on compressed natural gas. Currently, Ford is the only manufacturer with an available CNG/LPG-capable half-ton pickup.

According to Ford, the 2014 F-150 with 3.7-liter V6 engine is available with a factory-installed, gaseous-fuel prep package that includes hardened valves, valve seats, and pistons and rings so it can operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems.

When equipped with a bi-fuel CNG/LPG engine package, the 3.7-liter V6 F-150 is capable of achieving more than 750 miles on combined tanks of gasoline and CNG, depending on the tank sizes selected. The Ford F-150 with 3.7-liter V6 has an EPA-estimated rating of 23 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg combined, says Ford.

“Businesses and fleet customers have been asking Ford to make F-150 available with CNG capability to take advantage of the fuel’s low price and clean emissions,” said Jon Coleman, Ford fleet sustainability and technology manager.

Before the customer chooses a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier, CNG/LPG engine prep from the factory costs $315 to supply fuel tanks, fuel lines and unique fuel injectors. Upfits run approximately $6,000 to $9,500 depending on fuel tank capacity, says Ford.

CNG conversions can provide stability against fluctuating fuel prices as well as lower vehicle operating costs for fleet administrators, according to Ford. CNG sells for an average of $2.10 per gallon of gasoline equivalent — and is as low as $1 in some parts of the country. The national average for unleaded regular fuel is $3.29 per gallon.

Customers also can accelerate the payback period by taking advantage of a growing number of state incentives. Nearly 20 states — including Oklahoma, Texas, Pennsylvania and Florida — offer or soon will provide tax incentives or rebates for CNG-converted vehicles. In Florida, fleet customers will be eligible for rebates of up to $25,000 beginning in 2014.