Crystal Flash Joins Alliance AutoGas Network as Exclusive Dealer in Michigan

Dec. 23, 2012 - PRLog -- Contact: Natalya Zaytseva  

616.363.4851 / 800.875.4851  

natalyaz@crytalflash.com  

or

Mary Ann Sabo

Sabo Public Relations

616.485.1432

Crystal Flash Joins Alliance AutoGas Network as  

Exclusive Dealer in Michigan

Grand Rapids, Michigan, December 17, 2012 – Crystal Flash Energy™ has joined the Alliance AutoGas network as its exclusive dealer in Michigan.  

The Grand Rapids-based energy distribution company will provide a complete program to help regional fleets to switch to propane autogas, a fuel that is nearly as efficient and powerful as gasoline or diesel – but with virtually no tailpipe emissions. Engines that use autogas, which is growing in popularity in Europe as a green alternative fuel, run cleaner, cost less to run and require less maintenance.

As a new partner in the international Alliance AutoGas network, Crystal Flash will offer vehicle conversions, autogas fuel station installation at the customer’s location, safety and operational training, and ongoing technical support to commercial customers in virtually every county of the state.

“Fleets are looking for affordable alternative fuel options now more than ever, so it was important to us to partner with Alliance AutoGas to get Michigan fleets running on clean, affordable, American-made autogas,” said Crystal Flash President Tom Fehsenfeld. “The Alliance network is growing to meet the needs of fleets wanting to cut fuel costs with a domestic clean fuel, and we're proud to be a part of it.”

Unlike ethanol, biodiesel and other alternative fuels, propane autogas is cheaper to produce and easier to supply. Fleets that run on autogas currently save approximately $1.50 per gallon over those that utilize gasoline. It is also about 1/15 of the cost to build an autogas station than one compressed natural gas, or CNG, station.  

“Crystal Flash is a welcome addition to the Alliance AutoGas partner network, as they extend our reach to serve more fleets in Michigan,” said Stuart Weidie, president of Alliance AutoGas and founder of Autogas for America. “While state governors lobby Detroit to produce more natural gas vehicles, we're already helping real fleets – business owners, government agencies, public transportation and more – switch to the most practical vehicle fuel, propane autogas.”

David Dykstra, commercial sales manager for Crystal Flash, said the company expects its new relationship with Alliance AutoGas to have a positive effect on its bottom line in 2013.  

He said that autogas would be a smart choice for many light-duty vehicles, from police cars and school buses to delivery vans and service trucks. Dykstra explained that fleets using more than 175 gallons of fuel each month would save money by making the switch to autogas. Initial conversion costs range between $5,000-6,000, with savings realized almost immediately through its vehicle and infrastructure leasing programs.

“We are incredibly excited to join the growing network of Alliance AutoGas dealers,” Dykstra said. “The ability to offer current and new customers such an effective, efficient and green alternative fuel will help Crystal Flash continue to grow. We continue to be on the leading edge in fuel and energy distribution.”

About Crystal Flash Energy™

Crystal Flash Energy™ is a third-generation family-owned energy distribution company focused on commercial and residential customers throughout the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. Established in 1932, Crystal Flash has grown as the demand for energy has evolved, and today concentrates on the sale and distribution of propane, diesel and other fuels. Today, the company is one of the largest independently owned energy suppliers in the state with more than 250 employees in 11 locations. For more information, visit us online at www.crystalflash.com.  

About Alliance AutoGas

Alliance AutoGas enables fleet managers to use clean, economical, American-made autogas through vehicle conversions, on-site fueling and ongoing safety training and technical support. The Alliance AutoGas partner network of international propane marketers and conversion centers is experiencing tremendous growth, currently spanning 40 states, Washington D.C., and now the provinces of Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba in Canada. For fleets interested in new propane autogas-powered vehicles, Alliance also provides OEM vehicles through partnerships with automotive experts at ROUSH CleanTech as part of the complete program. Learn more at www.allianceautogas.com.