Westport to Supply 180 Peterbilt Trucks with LNG Power

Nov. 10, 2010
Canadian fleet orders low-emissions vehicles for Quebec routes

Vancouver-based Westport Innovations Inc. will deliver 180 Peterbilt LNG trucks outfitted with its Westport HD System to Robert Transport, one of Canada’s largest rental truck companies. Westport Innovations develops alternative fuel, low-emissions technologies for commercial transportation.

Westport works with various OEMs and engine builders to devise power units fueled by compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, and biofuels such as landfill gas. Our unique technologies reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) while preserving the power, torque, and fuel efficiency of diesel engines.

The Westport HD System comprises a 15-litre GX engine, proprietary fuel injectors, and liquefied natural gas fuel tanks with integrated cryogenic fuel pumps, along with associated electronic components. The Westport HD GX engine is certified and compliant to 2010 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission limits in North America.

"This is the single largest order for LNG trucks powered by Westport HD," stated CEO David Demers of Westport Innovations. "It's evidence that natural gas is gaining momentum as a mainstream transportation fuel in Canada.”

The trucks will be used to haul cargo Montréal and Québec City, and between Montréal to Toronto. LNG fuel will be supplied by Gaz Métro, which intends to establish three refueling sites on the 401 corridor between Québec City and Mississauga, Ont.

The Quebec government has increased the depreciation rate applicable to commercial trucks or tractors from 40% to 60% for new equipment acquired after March 31st, and also reduce amortization by 85% for trucks or tractors fueled by LNG.

Demers credited “companies like Robert Transport and Gaz Métro (that) are helping deploy natural gas transportation solutions to help reduce emissions." Robert Transport president and CEO Claude Robert said operating trucks fueled by natural gas reduces one of the fleet’s largest input costs and its carbon footprint.