Biltmore Estate’s Sustainable Fleet with Alliance AutoGas
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and commitment to sustainability. One of the estate’s most impactful environmental initiatives is its adoption of propane autogas, made possible through a long-standing partnership with Alliance AutoGas.
A Commitment to Sustainability
Biltmore’s Fleet Sustainability Plan is centered around ensuring guest comfort, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The estate’s mission is to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining cost-effective transportation solutions. This approach has led to the integration of propane autogas bi-fuel vehicles as a key component of its fleet strategy since 2012.
“We have enjoyed our long-standing relationship with the Biltmore Estate,” said Happy Fox, who manages the Biltmore account for Alliance Autogas. “The success of their sustainability strategy directly correlates with the autogas program’s success and impact. We are proud that propane autogas plays a significant role in Biltmore’s fleet by reducing operating costs and harmful emissions.”
Why Propane Autogas?
Propane autogas offers several advantages that align with Biltmore’s sustainability goals:
- Lower Emissions: As an approved clean alternative fuel under the Clean Air Act, propane significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline and diesel.
- Environmental Safety: Propane is nontoxic and safe for soil and groundwater, crucial for an estate that manages vineyards, forests, and farmland.
- Cost Savings: In FY24 alone, Biltmore saved $116,000 in fuel costs compared to the previous year.
- Reduced Maintenance Costs: Propane’s clean-burning properties extend engine life and reduce maintenance expenses.
Biltmore’s Growing Bi-Fuel Fleet
The estate currently operates 27 propane autogas bi-fuel vehicles, including guest shuttles, employee transport vans, and service trucks across multiple departments. This diversification allows the estate to maximize the benefits of propane autogas throughout its operations.
Onsite Fueling for Efficiency
To support its fleet, Biltmore installed a propane fueling station in 2012, with Alliance AutoGas leading the infrastructure setup. The station has been instrumental in reducing downtime and improving refueling efficiency. Due to growing demand, the estate is now upgrading to a larger capacity tank to accommodate its expanding fleet.
A Model for Other Fleets
Fleet managers exploring alternative fuel options can look to Biltmore’s success with propane autogas. Shane Williams, Biltmore’s Fleet Manager, emphasizes the importance of partnering with a reliable fuel provider, ongoing training, and technical support. The estate’s in-house technicians are certified to install and maintain propane autogas systems, ensuring long-term fleet sustainability.
“I believe that the mission statement we created while we were writing our Biltmore Fleet Sustainability Plan and Guidelines will answer what’s most important to our fleet,” said Williams. That statement says, “Our mission is to ensure the safety and comfort of our employees and guests while creating a fleet that is environmentally responsible, cost-effective, and socially responsible, through the implementation of sustainable transportation practices and technologies, to minimize our environmental impact and reduce our operating costs.”
Looking Ahead
Biltmore continues to evaluate alternative fuel options for future vehicle acquisitions, further integrating propane autogas alongside electric and biodiesel-powered vehicles. With its commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency, the estate serves as a model for organizations aiming to transition to cleaner transportation solutions.
Alliance AutoGas is proud to support Biltmore in its journey toward a greener future. For fleet managers seeking cost-effective, eco-friendly fuel solutions, propane autogas is a proven choice.