B.C. forestry fleet deploys six LNG-powered tractors

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CHILLIWACK, B.C. — Sutco Contracting has taken delivery of six Kenworth tractors powered by Westport’s 15-litre liquefied natural gas (LNG) engine, the company announced today.

The trucks will be deployed in the company’s wood residual fleet, based out of Chilliwack.

“The power is all there,” said Chris Sutherland, president of Sutco. “I’ve been driving trucks for twenty years and I have to admit I was a bit skeptical at first, but when I got behind the wheel of the demo truck I was immediately impressed with the power and knew these trucks would be successful in their designated application.”

The project was enabled through the assistance of FortisBC.

“The initial capital cost of a LNG-powered tractor versus a traditional diesel-powered tractor was substantial and without the Natural Gas for Transportation Incentive Program from FortisBC it would have been very difficult for our organization to test this new technology,” said Doug Sutherland, vice-president of the company. “Past history and new technology point to a stable fuel management future with natural gas. We believe this will close the gap between the capital cost of LNG vs diesel, and enable us to meet our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

The company also credited its dealer, Inland Kenworth, for providing expertise needed to get the deal done.

“We have had strong service support from Inland Kenworth for almost 20 years.  They’ve been servicing the Westport products for many years in their US locations and we believe their extensive knowledge will be beneficial. With our commitment to natural gas technology and its expansion in our fleet, we plan to rely on the Inland group’s widespread network,” said Chris Sutherland.

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