Iveco tests LNG solutions
Iveco has attempted to enhance the productivity of transport in response to the need to reduce fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and traffic congestion. Its solution combines the potential of natural gas technology with the productivity benefits stemming from the use of 18 m articulated vehicles.
Authorised by the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport in July 2008, the Italian Automotive Industry Association (ANFIA) launched Progetto Diciotto (Project Eighteen), designed to test the impact of increasing the length of articulated trucks from the current standard length of 16.5 m to 18 m on transport efficiency. The results achieved by Progetto Diciotto have improved transport efficiency by almost 10% on trial vehicles.
Field trial
Iveco has recently teamed up with SMET – a European logistics company – to trial the integration of two highly profitable green solutions, driven by an LNG-fuelled Stralis vehicle. Results concluded that LNG was far more beneficial than traditional diesel, in terms of both the total cost of ownership (TCO) and environmental impact.
Natural gas is significantly less expensive than diesel, reducing fuel costs by up to 40%.
Iveco conducted a field trial to evaluate the reduction in the average cost per unit for transported goods. Together, Iveco and SMET tested the compatibility of the articulated trucks on the road infrastructure and their parking manoeuvrability. The trial also highlighted the reduction in fuel consumption per unit for transported goods and, consequently, in CO2 emissions.
As a result of these studies, the only Italian legislation to differ is the lengthening of semi-trailers by around 1.5 m. All of the other basic specifications remain unchanged, from axle loads to manoeuvrability.
Similar experiments are being carried out in other European countries, including the Czech Republic, Germany and the UK.
Pierre Lahutte, Iveco’s Brand President, said: “Iveco and SMET's decision to field-test an 18 m long LNG Stralis has definitely proven to be a winning combination and reaffirms Iveco's commitment and role in increasing sustainable mobility.”
Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/small-scale-lng/20072015/iveco-tests-lng-solutions-1042/
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