Mack showcases LNG-powered Pinnacle at alternative transport event

Avatar photo

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Mack Trucks showcased its liquefied natural gas-powered Mack Pinnacle model during the Alternative Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo today.

The on-highway tractor displayed at the show was built for UPS. UPS put the vehicle into test service in Greensboro, N.C., and the truck has been running two 350-400 mile shifts per day, hauling loads of up to 80,000 lbs with both single and double trailers. UPS has since placed an order for 122 additional units, scheduled to be delivered throughout the fourth quarter of 2013. 

The Mack natural gas Pinnacle model is equipped with a Cummins Westport ISX12 G engine and offers maintenance-free aftertreatment, meeting both EPA 2010 and CARB emissions standards, according to Mack officials. Four hundred horsepower and 1,450 lb.-ft. of torque make the truck ideal for LTL and regional haul applications, according to Mack. Mack officials noted that LNG currently costs 30-40% less than diesel based on a diesel gallon equivalent, enabling customers to receive a significant return on investment.

“Because ACT Expo is North America’s largest alternative fuel and clean vehicle technology show, we felt it was an important venue to demonstrate the purposeful design that makes our Mack Pinnacle a leading natural gas-powered highway truck in the market,” said Roy Horton, Mack powertrain product marketing manager. “We have a long-standing relationship with UPS on the diesel side, and we take great pride in the fact that they’ve turned to us for natural gas vehicles as well.”   

Mack has been offering natural gas-powered Mack TerraPro models since 2009. Mack officials say the company plans to introduce a natural gas-powered version of the Mack Granite model as well.

Avatar photo

Truck News is Canada's leading trucking newspaper - news and information for trucking companies, owner/operators, truck drivers and logistics professionals working in the Canadian trucking industry.


Have your say


This is a moderated forum. Comments will no longer be published unless they are accompanied by a first and last name and a verifiable email address. (Today's Trucking will not publish or share the email address.) Profane language and content deemed to be libelous, racist, or threatening in nature will not be published under any circumstances.

*