New initiative makes Ford dedicated LPG vehicles an even more attractive proposition

The Federal Government's contribution of $1000 towards the purchase cost of a new factory-fitted LPG powered vehicle for private use has made Ford's range of dedicated LPG models an even more attractive proposition.

"A new dedicated LPG Ford Falcon, with the grant, represents an outstanding offer for Australian families," said President of Ford Australia, Tom Gorman.

"At current fuel prices, motorists can expect to save approximately $40 per tank with an LPG vehicle versus an equivalent petrol model."

Falcon is the only Australian built car to offer a dedicated LPG system, and Ford recently expanded the LPG range to nine models, including ute, wagon and sedan variants. All come with Ford's full three year/ 100,000 km warranty as standard.

"Sales of our LPG Falcons have increased significantly since the first introduction of a dedicated option in 1999," said Mr Gorman.

In 2004 LPG Falcons accounted for 6% of annual Falcon sales. In 2005 it had risen to 11%, and so far this year, approximately 21% of all Falcon sales are LPG.
"An ever increasing number of Australians are coming to realise our dedicated LPG Falcon offers all the power and comfort of a large family sedan but with the fuel costs of a small car," said Mr Gorman.

Presently, Ford is participating in the 'Around Australia for around $1000' LPG challenge, which arrives in Darwin tonight.

The 23-day trial commenced on August 3 and will take in all mainland states, covering more than 13,500 kilometres in a dedicated LPG Falcon.

"The challenge will attempt to circumnavigate Australia for around $1000, and demonstrate LPG is a cheaper and readily available alternative fuel," said Mr Gorman.

As of this afternoon, the challenge had travelled more than 7700km from Melbourne to Darwin via Perth and the West Coast, for a total fuel cost of $562.

A dedicated website accessible via the Ford Australia homepage (www.ford.com.au) will follow the Ford LPG Challenge, and provide regular updates from around the country.

In addition to the LPG grant announcement, Ford Australia also welcomed the Government's new incentives to accelerate the distribution of E10 fuel. All new Ford passenger vehicles are suitable to run on E10 fuel blends.