IVECO launches LNG-powered tractor for 44-tonne operation

[kscarbel2]

Transport Engineer  /  July 11, 2018

IVECO has unveiled the Stralis NP 460, the first pure gas-powered 6x2 tractor for 44-tonne [97,003lb] operation.

Launched yesterday (10 July) at an event for customers and dealers at Gasrec’s refuelling site at the Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal, the vehicle is the first three-axle tractor to operate on 100% liquefied natural gas (LNG).

It has been engineered in both right-hand and left-hand drive variants and, says IVECO’s Stuart Webster, its launch “marks the moment natural gas moves into mainstream UK volume in a big way”.

He adds: “Bringing this new vehicle to market is the culmination of our more than 20 years’ development of natural gas technology – packaged into a 6x2 tractor which can deliver a true competitive advantage for UK fleets on both regional and long-distance missions.”

Vehicle range has been a key factor, and the Stralis NP 460 6x2 runs for around 750km – ideal for operators whose vehicles go out and back on the same day, says the manufacturer.

The LNG tanks, mounted either side of the chassis, are designed to be the largest possible to still allow 22.5in wheels across all three axles.

The vehicle is powered by the 12.9-litre IVECO Cursor 13 NP single-fuel engine and the latest generation 12-speed Hi-Tronix automated transmission, with new functions such as the GPS-based Hi-Cruise predictive cruise control and gear-shifting.

Natural gas delivers a 99% reduction of PM and 60% in NOx compared to Euro VI limits, while CO₂ emissions can be cut by up to 95% when running on liquefied biomethane.

The Cursor 13 NP engine records less than 71dB on the PIEK quiet truck test.

Other features include IVECO’s fuel-saving Driving Style Evaluation system to monitor and improve driver behaviour, an Ecoswitch speed and torque limiter, Ecofleet for the most efficient shifting strategy, an optimised rear axle ratio, low-rolling resistance tyres and access to IVECO’s Fuel Consultancy Services.

The Stralis NP has service intervals of 90,000 km and it is available with a range of IVECO Elements R&M contracts.

Using telematics, each vehicle will be monitored by IVECO’s gas technology team to ensure any potential issues are quickly identified, so boosting vehicle uptime.

The Stralis NP 460 6x2 is available to order from dealers now; the first demonstrators are expected to be on the road in October 2018.

.

[kscarbel2]

The US needs to catch up with the world in trucking efficiency and allow 97,000 pound (44 metric ton) artics.

[12V71]

Ok, so this is LNG without the super high pressures of the CNG tank systems on some US trucks with the huge refueling times to compress CNG into the tanks? Just curious, Got a friend that runs garbage trucks in Portland Oregon on CNG and they have had to install 2 compressor stations to fill 10 trucks overnight. 

 

[kscarbel2]

For local operaton, e.g. city buses, CNG is popular. But in long-haul, most operators and countries prefer LNG.

http://www.360che.com/tech/170706/81278_all.html

http://www.360che.com/tech/170719/81599.html

[Red Horse]

1 hour ago, 12V71 said:

Ok, so this is LNG without the super high pressures of the CNG tank systems on some US trucks with the huge refueling times to compress CNG into the tanks? Just curious, Got a friend that runs garbage trucks in Portland Oregon on CNG and they have had to install 2 compressor stations to fill 10 trucks overnight. 

 

Isn't the downside of LNG very heavy tanks cutting into payload?  (Even heavier than CNG systems)??  As for the cab itself, one of the better looking Euro cabovers IMO.

[kscarbel2]

9 hours ago, Red Horse said:

Isn't the downside of LNG very heavy tanks cutting into payload?  (Even heavier than CNG systems)??  As for the cab itself, one of the better looking Euro cabovers IMO.

Just the opposite Bob, LNG tanks are lighter. Agreed, the Stralis is a sharp looking COE.

LNG example - http://www.360che.com/tech/170706/81278_all.html

CNG example - http://www.360che.com/tech/170719/81599.html