Proposal:
Execute a Contract to Cost-Share the Development and Demonstration of a Long-Range Natural-Gas Van
Synopsis:
Certain manufacturers have developed low-emission vehicles fueled by automotive compressed natural gas (CNG). However, because of space constraints for the CNG tanks, these vehicles are limited in range to about half that of gasoline vehicles. CALSTART proposes to develop a modified frame structure for the Dodge Ram Van to incorporate larger CNG storage tanks and double the vehicle range. The total estimated cost of this project is $750,000. Staff recommends that a contract with CALSTART be executed for an amount not to exceed $100,000.
Committee:
Technology, February 13, 1996, Recommended for Approval
Recommended Action:
Authorize the Chairman to execute a contract with CALSTART, not to exceed $100,000, for development and demonstration of a long-range natural-gas van, subject to the adoption and inclusion of the Technology Advancement Plan in the Clean Fuels Program.
James M. Lents, Ph.D.
Executive Officer
ARA:MXB
Background
The Air Quality Management Plan emphasizes the use of alternative fuels throughout the transportation sector as an air-quality attainment strategy. In addition, the Federal Energy Policy Act requires the use of alternative fuels by vehicle fleets to reduce the need for importing petroleum products. In response, some original-equipment manufacturers (OEM) have developed low-emission vehicles fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG). However, because of space constraints for the CNG tanks, these vehicles are limited in range to about half that of equivalent gasoline vehicles. This limits the appeal and marketability of these low-emission vehicles.
Proposal
CALSTART has proposed to develop and demonstrate a long-range CNG Dodge Ram Van. The base vehicle was certified by the Air Resources Board to Ultra-Low-Emission-Vehicle (ULEV) standards, but only has only a range of 175 miles. NGV/USA, Incorporated, conducted a $142,000 Phase-I engineering study of this vehicle that was sponsored by Atlanta Gas Light Company, Chrysler Corporation, Columbia Gas of Ohio, Gas Research Institute, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, and Southern California Gas Company. This study determined that it is feasible to modify the frame rails of the CNG Dodge van and efficiently incorporate larger CNG storage tanks. This modification will not substantially reduce the payload, strength nor structural rigidity of the van, and it will extend the range to 350 miles.
In Phase II, CALSTART proposes to finalize the modification design, fabricate a prototype CNG van, and extensively road test this prototype. First, computer modeling will be performed to simulate collisions and evaluate other failure modes. Chrysler will also review the design and recommend changes to improve manufacturability. A prototype replacement chassis will then be fabricated using special construction jigs and fixtures. A standard CNG Dodge Van will have its original chassis replaced by the prototype chassis, and larger CNG cylinders will be installed. Finally, a battery of dynamic road tests will be performed to evaluate the long-range design. Phase II has a total cost of $750,000.
This proposed project is included in the Technology Advancement Plan for the Clean Fuels Program as Project MS-07, "Development and Demonstration of a Long-Range Natural-Gas Van." The expected benefits of this project are a general "proof-of-concept" demonstration and potential emission reductions if this technology is commercialized and the number of CNG vehicles increases.
Sole-Source Justification
Section II, Step 3(C) of the Consultant Selection Policy identifies four provisions under which the Governing Board may award a sole-source contract: (1) cost to prepare documents exceeds the cost for consultants, (2) delay would result in the endangerment of public health, (3) services are only available from sole-source, and (4) other circumstances exist identifying sole-source as in the best interest of the AQMD. This request for sole-source award is being made under provision (4). CALSTART, headquartered in Burbank, California, was created with the help of the AQMD to establish an advanced transportation industry in California. To date, CALSTART has had extensive experience managing alternative-fuel-vehicle development projects including electric, hybrid-electric and CNG vehicle projects.
CALSTART has developed an innovative and unique clean-fuels project to design, fabricate, test and demonstrate a long-range natural-gas Dodge Ram Van. This van will then become more attractive in the market place and be sold in greater volumes. This van will reduce emissions compared to the gasoline version by more than 50%. CALSTART has assembled an exceptionally qualified team to develop and demonstrate a long-range natural-gas van for near-term implementation and air quality benefit. This team shall consist of the following:
As noted below, CALSTART has obtained 87% cost-sharing for this project from the team members and natural-gas utilities. For these reasons, it is in the best interest of the AQMD to award a sole-source contract to CALSTART.
Resource Impacts
The total project cost is estimated to be $750,000. Cosponsors include the following:
Sponsors Cash In-Kind Total
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Advanced Research Projects $460,000 - $460,000
Administration
Atlanta Gas Light 20,000 - 15,000
Chrysler Corporation 25,000 $25,000 50,000
NGV/USA - 80,000 50,000
Pacific Gas and Electric 20,000 - 20,000
Southern California Gas 20,000 - 35,000
AQMD 100,000 - 100,000
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Total $645,000 $105,000 $750,000
Sufficient funds are available in the FY 1995-96 budget to fund this project.
BD13:3-96F