Fiat Chrysler Converts Private Truck Fleet to CNG

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Transport Topics / December 4, 2015

FCA US, the North American automaking unit of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V., said it will invest $40 million to convert 179 trucks in its private fleet to run on compressed natural gas and to build the largest private CNG fueling station in North America in Detroit.

The move also will create the largest private fleet of CNG-powered heavy-duty vehicles in the state of Michigan, company officials said Dec. 4. FCA Transport (formerly Chrysler Group Transport) ranks No. 6 on Transport Topics’ list of the largest private carriers in the manufacturing sector with 331 tractors, 13 straight trucks and 1,294 trailers.

“Our transition to CNG reflects the way FCA US attempts to balance our search for profitability with social responsibility and community development, including environmental stewardship,” said Steve Beahm, senior vice president, supply chain management. “This project offered a solid business case, clear environmental benefits and an opportunity to invest in our Detroit facility and workforce.”

FCA Transport, which delivers parts to assembly plants from suppliers and other FCA US plants, expects to trim fuel costs by 35% and reduce CO2 emissions by more than 16,000 tons a year following the conversion to CNG.

The company said it has spent $1.8 million to modify a maintenance facility to handle the new fleet and another $5 million for a new fueling station built by TruStar Energy.