Fleet operators looking for reliable, low-emission, and budget-friendly fuel solutions got a deep dive into propane autogas during METRO Magazine’s recent webinar, “Driving Efficiency: Unlocking the Power of Propane Autogas for Your Fleet,” presented by the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC).

METRO Executive Editor Alex Roman hosted the session, which featured Joel Stutheit, PERC’s senior manager of autogas business development and former transportation director at Bethel School District in Washington State. 

Drawing on over two decades of experience in fleet management, Stutheit highlighted the real-world benefits of propane autogas, from reduced maintenance costs to long-term sustainability gains.

Key Takeaways from the webinar include:

• Propane-powered vehicles offer a lower total cost of ownership compared to diesel and gasoline alternatives, with many fleets realizing ROI in as little as two to three years.

• Maintenance savings are significant: propane engines require less oil, fewer filters, and eliminate the need for costly diesel aftertreatment systems.

• Fleets across sectors, including school districts, transit agencies, national parks, and corporate operators, are turning to propane to meet performance and emissions goals.

• Fueling infrastructure is scalable and cost-effective, with options ranging from temporary mobile units to permanent on-site stations.

• Renewable propane is emerging as a future-forward solution, supporting deeper carbon reductions while using existing infrastructure.

Propane Fueling Infrastructure 

Stutheit also addressed infrastructure planning, training for maintenance teams, and incentive opportunities to support adoption. 

He emphasized that propane is grid-independent, making it especially attractive for fleets operating in remote areas or regions vulnerable to power disruptions.

“Propane is a clean, reliable, and proven fuel that’s already powering over 60,000 vehicles across the country,” said Stutheit. “Whether you're running school buses, paratransit, or commercial fleets, propane offers long-term value without sacrificing performance.”

Attendees left with a clearer understanding of evaluating their fleets, estimating potential savings, and taking the first steps toward integrating propane into their operations.

Missed the webinar? A full recording is available here.