A-to-Z Guide to Green: Jolly Green Giant
04/01/2008
When Galpin Auto Sports and SAE Energy conceptualized the Bio Hydro as a showcase for eco-awareness, the two companies didn’t forget that it needed to be usable in the real world—where the types of fuel available at gas stations don’t always keep up with cutting-edge technology. So the monster Ford F-450’s powerplant presents a blend of outlandish and practical applications for alternative energy.The dual-fuel system designed by SAE Energy takes Ford’s stock 6.4-liter V-8 diesel engine and converts it to run simultaneously on B100 Biodiesel and hydrogen. But because finding hydrogen—and even biodiesel—in a petroleum-based market can present a serious challenge, SAE Energy has also engineered the system to operate with natural gas. "Natural gas is currently around $1.25 per equivalent gallon of gasoline and it provides a more efficient burn with lower emissions," says Johnathan Goodwin, CEO of SAE Energy. "Essentially you get three things: a cost savings on the fuel source, better fuel economy, and a cleaner burn."
With off-road lights, a suspension lift system, a two-tone paint job and two 23-gallon hydrogen tanks resting in the truck bed, the Bio Hydro is impossible to miss. Thanks to a raised suspension, you almost have to jump into the truck. But once in the cabin, I discover chocolate-brown leather seats that are an appreciated alternative to the Ford’s usual upholstery. "I wanted the interior to be ultra-luxurious, while still highlighting the eco-conscious aspect," says Beau Boeckmann, president of Galpin Auto Sports. In addition to the earth-toned leather, Galpin Auto Sports added an earth-friendly aesthetic by incorporating a hemp headliner from Enviro Textiles and recycled carpeting.
The truck starts up with a rumble, but feels just as civilized as any other diesel truck in the Ford model line. With all of Galpin’s interior enhancements—including dual audio and video systems for rear passengers, an Alpine navigation system, as well as Bluetooth and internet capabilities—it is easy to overlook the only interior addition from SAE Energy. "Just flip a switch on the dash [to use the dual fuel system] and you’re good to go," says Goodwin. "If you happen to run out of hydrogen or natural gas, the system will automatically revert back to 100 percent biodiesel."
Goodwin and I take the car for a spin around the Galpin facility in the San Fernando Valley, as he explains the benefits and logistics of his dual fuel conversion system: "When I first got into the F-450 it was only getting 9 mpg, but this conversion takes it up to about 16 mpg. We have integrated our system to work with the standard truck’s ECU in order to displace 50 percent of the biodiesel with either hydrogen or natural gas."
SAE Energy, which is currently working with UPS to create a fleet of 70,000 environmentally-friendly vehicles, will begin offering its dual fuel conversion for any turbocharged diesel engine in May at a price of $5,000. In the meantime, the Bio Hydro show truck can be purchased from Galpin Auto Sports for $150,000, proving that a little elbow grease and tank full of vegetable oil can go a long way.
Galpin Auto Sports, 887.464.2746, www.galpinautosports.com
SAE Energy, 877.723.6749, www.saeenergy.com