27.09.2021 | News
FIRST LNG TRAILER MACHINES IN USE
ALTERNATIVE FORM OF ENERGY REDUCES CO2 EMISSIONS
LGI Polska’s truck fleet was recently expanded with two new IVECO tractors powered by LNG as an alternative fuel. The trucks are now being tested in operation in order to draw conclusions for the future fleet structure.
Natural gas engines have already been used internationally for many years. LNG (liquefied natural gas) can be used to power trucks and ships. In the truck sector, well-known manufacturers such as Iveco, Scania and Volvo offer trucks with LNG drive ex works. As a result of subsidy programs, more and more LNG vehicles have been registered. As a result, the sales volume of liquefied natural gas (LNG) at German LNG filling stations tripled in 2020 compared with the previous year, according to the Zukunft Gas initiative, which includes nearly 130 companies from the energy industry.
The performance of LNG-compatible engines is comparable to that of today’s diesel engines. The main advantage is up to 25% lower CO2 emissions and the almost complete reduction of sulfur oxide and particulate matter. In addition, the units are quieter and emit around 50% less noise. Good reasons, therefore, to test this type of drive in regular use.
Initial interviews with drivers revealed that the refueling process is somewhat more complex. A greater difficulty, however, is that there are too few LNG refueling stations, which are often busy because of this. Comfort is comparable to previous trucks, and the IVECO’s LED lighting was praised. However, the chassis is too low, which has a negative effect on uneven routes.
The exact consumption measurements are just starting. Here, however, the fleet management expects similar costs as for diesel units. The higher purchase costs for LNG versions are currently offset by the toll exemption in Germany. Not to mention the positive contributions to the environment and thus a contribution to our sustainability strategy.
Your contact
Head of Corporate Communication & Marketing
Thomas Bogner
+49 8122 567 1131
thomas_bogner@lgi.de