DEARBORN, Mich., May 8, 2000 -- Ford Motor Company announced that it is once again adding to its industry-leading alternative fuel vehicle line-up. For the 2001 model year, Ford will offer a dedicated natural gas version of the popular E-450 Cutaway Econoline van.

Evolved from the "chop vans" of the 1960's, the E-450 Cutaway is a conventional short-chassis-cab van produced without a back panel for custom commercial applications. Popular uses for E-450 Cutaways include airport shuttles and parcel delivery vehicles.

The addition of the natural gas E-450 Cutaway gives customers a choice between natural gas, gasoline and diesel-powered versions of the vehicle.

"Natural gas is a great option for our customers because it is cleaner-burning and less expensive than either gasoline or diesel," said Dave Tarrant, Ford commercial truck and alternative fuel vehicle manager. "We've received a lot of requests from customers for a natural gas version of the E-450 Cutaway, and now we are answering those demands."

The dedicated natural gas E-450 Cutaway expands Ford's existing dedicated natural gas vehicle line-up, which includes the Crown Victoria, F-Series pickup truck and Econoline Cargo Vans and Club Wagons. In addition, Ford offers a bi-fuel version of the F-Series pick-up truck that can operate on either natural gas or gasoline through separate fuel systems.

Ford will begin taking orders for the E-450 Cutaway this summer. Production is scheduled to begin at the Lorain, Ohio assembly plant in December. Vehicle deliveries will begin in January. Ford expects to sell about 500 units in the first year of production.