Ventures Vehicle Systems Launches CNG Ford Demo Fleet

Michigan’s Venchurs Vehicle Systems (Booth 438) is promoting a nationwide short term loaner program allowing fleet managers and buyers to test its CNG-fueled Ford F-250 and -350 pickups.

“The benefits of CNG are immense, and integrating alternative energy vehicles into a fleet is a big decision,” said Venchurs sales and marketing VP Terry Karges. “We believe that our system is so seamless, and the cost/benefit is so positive, that most fleet operators will make the switch after trying one of these trucks – so we’re putting them on the road.”

Venchurs has shown a bi-fuel CNG search and rescue Ford F-250 concept truck proposed for pilot program demonstrations by national park rangers. The ‘Equip SAR’€ upfit includes Michelin off-road tires, roof-mounted light-bar with strobe lights, on-board air compressor, heavy front bumper, and winch. The truck was shown at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis and later took part in an off-road vehicle event in Moab, Utah.

Venchurs offers both dedicated-compressed natural gas and bi-fuel CNG-gasoline trucks. The bi-fuel system allows for seamless “on-the-fly” switching between CNG and gasoline, the company says, making for total range of up to 650 miles.

The 38-year-old company is one of the first Qualified Vehicle Modifiers for Ford, tapping its longtime experience with the OEM to ease the QVM approval process. QVM status means that the original vehicle warranty remains in place.

“We know that some fleets out there use their vehicles in the harshest of environments, whether it is off the pavement or in extreme temperatures,” said Venchurs CEO Jeff Wyatt. “We’ve put our trucks through rigorous testing, and this demo program is important so that fleet managers themselves can directly see the capabilities these trucks have.”