The largest producer in heavy trucks has brought in two Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) trucks to be tested locally. These gas-powered trucks have specifically been developed for heavy regional and long-haul operations. This local testing is being done with the vision in mind that trucks will eventually have zero emissions and the way of achieving a zero-emission system is not through one single solution but rather through several solutions in parallel.
The LNG shows promising potential as a substitute for the traditional diesel trucks, with a good supply globally, and increasing availability locally. When cooled down to a lower temperature the gas liquefies and reduces in volume thus, an increase in capacity to carry more fuel is made possible.
The powertrain in the new gas-powered trucks is thanks to the renowned diesel engine technology. Also, by using LNG rather than compressed natural gas (CNG), it can carry larger quantities of fuel and enables the necessary operating range for long-haul assignments.
The new gas-powered trucks offer the same fuel efficiency as diesel-powered equivalents and can operate at the same speed. However, since LNG is often cheaper a good opportunity exists in reduce fuel costs. With the 205kg LNG tank, European operators have seen a usable range of up to 1000km dependent on terrain and payload carried.
Testing will soon start to establish the viability of the LNG alternative to reduce climate-impact emissions from heavy commercial traffic that will bring about the change of environmentally friendly transport solutions that are good for the industry and the planet.