When the conversation turns to clean transportation, it is easy to focus only on what is new. But across Arkansas, liquefied petroleum gas, also known as propane, continues to be one of the most practical and widely used alternative fuels in fleet operations today.
From school buses and trash trucks to medium duty service vehicles, propane is already working across the state, delivering lower emissions, reliable performance, and manageable costs.
Proven Use Across Arkansas
Propane has a long track record in fleet applications that demand reliability. Arkansas school districts use propane buses to reduce emissions around students while maintaining dependable cold start performance. Municipal fleets rely on propane for refuse trucks and service vehicles that operate in stop and go conditions. Medium duty fleets continue to adopt propane as a cost effective alternative to gasoline and diesel.
Propane autogas vehicles can reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90 percent compared to older diesel models, helping improve air quality in the communities where these vehicles operate.
Source Arkansas Propane Gas Association.
Infrastructure That Is Already in Place
One of propane’s biggest advantages is accessibility. Arkansas has 36 public propane fueling stations statewide, with additional private and on site fueling options available for fleets. This existing network supports fueling corridors across the state, allowing fleets to operate locally or regionally without concern about fuel availability.
Source United States Department of Energy Alternative Fuels Data Center.
Cost Stability and Operational Benefits
Propane continues to appeal to fleet managers because it balances sustainability with real world operations. Fuel costs are historically stable, and propane engines typically have lower maintenance costs due to cleaner combustion and simpler emissions systems. These factors help fleets plan budgets with greater certainty while keeping vehicles on the road.
Supporting Cleaner Transportation Goals
Propane plays an important role in helping Arkansas fleets meet emissions reduction goals today. Federal programs such as the EPA Clean School Bus Program have supported Arkansas school districts in replacing older diesel buses with cleaner options, including propane, reducing both emissions and operating costs. Source United States Environmental Protection Agency and Talk Business and Politics.
A Practical Path Forward
As fleets navigate changing incentives, evolving regulations, and infrastructure considerations, propane stands out as a solution that is available now, proven in Arkansas, and scalable across fleet types. With widespread vehicle use, established fueling infrastructure, and measurable emissions benefits, propane continues to be a strong fit for both rural and urban operations.
Propane may not be the newest option, but for many Arkansas fleets, it remains one of the smartest choices.
ARKANSAS CLEAN CITIES 
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