WATERLOO, IA – John Deere Power Systems (JDPS) is a sponsor of the third National Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) Day Odyssey, which will take place Oct. 12 at numerous locations in the United States and Canada. This event, coordinated by the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium, is dedicated to educating the nation about the importance of AFVs and advanced technology vehicles. Showcasing these technologies is especially important given the recent concerns about high gas and diesel prices, the country’s dependence on foreign oil, and the critical state of the environment.

JDPS began exploring natural gas engine technology in 1995, and since then, the number of John Deere natural gas engines in the United States has continued to expand. They’ve been installed in school and transit buses, as well as refuse and utility trucks. About 60 sites will host local Odyssey events, each featuring such activities as educational fairs or conferences; networking breakfasts/luncheons; information on AFV training opportunities; and AFV ride-and-drive demonstrations for policymakers, students, fleet managers, and the general public. A special Odyssey 2006 kickoff celebration will take place at the Arlington County Courthouse Plaza in Arlington, Va., just outside of Washington, D.C.

The John Deere 8.1L natural gas engine is available in compressed natural gas or liquid natural gas and offers a power range of 250 hp to 280 hp and features 735 ft-lb to 900 ft-lb of torque. The engine has been certified to Environmental Protection Agency emissions levels and California Air Resources Board optional low NOx standards of 1.2 g/bhp-hr for MHHD, HHDD, and urban bus vehicles.

For more information, visit www.nationalafvdayodyssey.org and www.JohnDeere.com/jdpower