Sterling Introduces Its First Natural Gas-Powered Vehicle
May 13, 2008 3:11 PM
Sterling Truck Corporation rolled out a new natural gas (NG)-fueled tractor. The Sterling Set-Back 113 fueled with natural gas is ideal for port operations, as well as 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 incentives, too, which means that accessibility to NG fuel is on the rise.
"Due to deterioration in air quality, the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach have embraced the use of alternative fuels in commercial vehicles. At the same time, utility companies and municipalities throughout North America have shown increased interest in green transportation technology," said Richard Shearing, manager of product strategy for Sterling Truck Corporation. "By introducing the Set-Back 113 with Natural Gas, we're giving our customers a hard-working truck that reduces both costs and environmental emissions."
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 ratings 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 (TWC). No further technology or after treatment will be required to meet 2010 emissions standards.
"NG technology has come a long way. Buses have been using it for years, but these next-generation NG powertrains have more power because less air is needed for combustion," said Shearing. "Plus, the technology simply burns cleaner."
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