FORD will launch bi-fuel options on Transit, Mondeo and Focus next year with full sales and support back-up through its national dealer network, the manufacturer announced at the Motor Show. The bi-fuel programme - aimed primarily at high mileage fleets - means that cars and vans fitted can be fitted to use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or compressed natural gas (CNG) - and will benefit from a reduction of up to 50% in exhaust emissions.

The Transit will be the first model to benefit from the alternative fuel programme next March, followed by Mondeo in July 1999 and Focus later that year. Up to 75% of the LPG/CNG equipment installation is available as a subsidy through the Government-backed Powershift programme. The majority of Ford cars and light commercials are also available with bi-fuel conversions through specialist engineering firms. Warranties are covered by the converter with the Ford warranty as normal on the vehicle.

Ford is urging fleets to test bi-fuel cars to demonstrate their practicalities. 'These vehicles could not be more simple to drive and operate,' said a spokesman. A switch on the dashboard allows the driver to select the fuel type - unleaded petrol or LPG/ CNG, and the engine management system automatically reverts to petrol should the vehicle run out of gas.