PORTLAND, ORE. July 7, 2009 Freightliner Trucks today introduced its first natural gas-powered truck, the Freightliner Business Class® M2 112 NG, ideal for port operations, natural gas utilities, and municipalities. An OEM factory-built product, this truck is powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G.
Natural gas technology can save an estimated $6,000 in annual fuel and operating costs per truck. Customers in states such as California will also benefit from tax incentives for alternative fuel vehicles. Fuel providers take advantage of these incentive too, which means that accessibility to NG fuel is on the rise.
The M2 112 is a versatile and hard-working truck, and adding a natural gas option only enhances its efficiency, said Melissa Clausen, director of product marketing for Freightliner Trucks. As part of Daimler Truck™s Shaping Future Transportation initiative, we will continue to provide reliable trucks with both economic and environmental benefits.
The Cummins Westport ISL G, an 8.9 liter stoichiometric cooled-exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) engine, offers the lowest emissions available in the industry without sacrificing top-level performance and efficiency. Available in rating up to 320 hp, the ISL G already meets EPA 2010 standards with 85 percent lower NOx emissions than the C Gas Plus engine, and features the highest power-to-weight ratio in class with an optimized turbocharger. The ISL G also features a maintenance-free exhaust system with a three-way catalyst. No further technology or after-treatment will be required to meet 2010 emissions.
Natural gas technology has come a long way. Buses have been using it for years, but the next generation natural gas powertrains have more power because less air is needed for combustion, said Clausen. The technology simply burns cleaner.
Added Roe East, president of Cummins Westport, This is a great opportunity for Cummins Westport to partner with Freightliner, one of North America™s leading truck manufacturers. By launching the Cummins Westport ISL G in the M2 112 tractor, Freightliner will be able to provide customers with clean, economical gas power for a wide range of applications. By the end of 2010, Freightliner will have a complete Cummins Westport-powered line-up with configuration options for more than 90 percent of truck applications in North America.
In 2009, Freightliner Trucks will also offer a CNG version of the M2 112, followed by a CNG single axle tractor, 4×2 and 6×2 truck, and vocational configurations.
For more information, call or visit your nearby Freightliner Trucks dealership or go to www.FreightlinerTrucks.com.
Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and is the leading heavy-duty truck manufacturer in North America. Daimler Trucks North America produces and markets Class 4-8 trucks and is a Daimler company, the world”s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer.
