Training Resource Gets a One-of-a-Kind Makeover
The National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium and ICOM North America, a leader in propane autogas conversion systems have teamed up to create a one-of-a-kind vehicle and an investment for future NAFTC students.
This summer, ICOM converted the NAFTC Hybrid Electric Vehicle Training Educator to run on propane autogas in addition to gasoline and the hybrid system.
HEVTE spent several days ICOM North America headquarters in New Hudson, MI being fitted with a tri-fuel turn key propane system and an upgraded bug box to diagnose problems within both the autogas and electric drive systems.
“NAFTC’s cutaway Prius is a great example of our ability to work together for advanced alternative fuels systems training,” ICOM Technical Manager Albie Venezio commented. “The system starts on gas, converts to autogas and then goes into a hybrid mode when necessary, and from there on out it’s always going to autogas and battery.”
The NAFTC and ICOM joined together for the conversion to enhance the Propane Autogas Vehicle Technician Training, funded by the Propane Education and Research Council.
HEVTE has been used in several autogas training sessions since the conversion allowing students to get a closer look at a propane fueling system in action and to diagnose and repair issues within that system.
NAFTC Interim Director Micheal Smyth commented, “The students that have seen the new autogas system in the cutaway Prius have certainly benefited. Participants in our trainings always comment that some of the most helpful parts of the class involve seeing fuel systems and getting hands-on experience. With the improvements made to HEVTE we are able to show much more of the fueling system within a working vehicle.”
“We are always interested in any project that helps to better evolve the industry. Propane autogas training is extremely important in today’s evolving automotive world. We are focused on training new and upcoming automotive techs to be prepared for the alt-fuel world.”- Albie Venezio
Contact the NAFTC at 304-293-7882 or naftc@mail.wvu.edu to learn more about the Propane Autogas Vehicle Technician Training.