one of the largest distributors of propane, recognized today the decision by Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell to begin a shift of that state's approximately 10,000 vehicles to various alternative fuels that include propane autogas.

Ferrellgas representatives were on hand yesterday with a ROUSH liquid propane injection Ford E-350 van when Gov. McDonnell signed an executive order at the Virginia Office of Fleet Management Services in Richmond. That office oversees approximately 4,000 passenger vehicles used by more than 175 state agencies and institutions.

"We congratulate Gov. McDonnell and applaud his decision to shift Virginia's vehicles from the use of traditional fuels to cleaner burning alternative fuels," says George Koloroutis, President of Ferrell North America and Senior Vice President of Ferrellgas, whose company boasts the third largest propane autogas fleet in the U.S. and one of the 35 largest "green" fleets in the country. "This effort will help reduce dangerous greenhouse emissions and play a significant part in lessening our nation's reliance on foreign oil. I hope to see other states follow his leadership example."

Approximately 15 million vehicles run on propane autogas worldwide, making it the third most popular motor fuel. Autogas-powered vehicles produce significantly lower particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and hydrocarbon emissions than traditional gasoline powered vehicles, all without significant reduction in a vehicle's range or power.