18 May 2001: A bi-fuel Ford Focus which can run on both petrol and LPG has been brought to Ireland for testing with selected fleet operators. Unlike conventional aftermarket conversions, the bi-fuel Focus is a factory-fitted Ford engineered and warranted vehicle.
Its 1.8I 16V Zetec engine has been upgraded to ensure long-term durability when using gaseous fuel. The upgrade includes hardened valve and valve seats which compensates for the absence of the lubricating qualities of petrol.
LPG is an environmentally efficient fuel, with noxious emissions 80% below current Stage II emission levels. CO2 emissions are similar to petrol.
When started, the engine runs on petrol for a short period before switching automatically to LPG. The transition is seamless, with no effect on driveability. The engine will switch back automatically to petrol if the LPG tank is empty. The LPG fuel filler is located on the opposite side of the vehicle to the conventional petrol filler. The tank itself is in the spare wheel well, with a tyre inflator kit supplied in lieu of the spare wheel.
“This vehicle represents a highly practical contribution to emissions reduction - one which warrants a favourable tax treatment by Government,” says Eddie Murphy, Chairman and Managing Director, Henry Ford & Son Limited. “The motor industry is moving on these key issues. It is beholden on our legislators to follow suit through more enlightened taxation policies.”
May 2001