LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Sterling introduced a natural gas-powered truck which is intended for use at ports and in municipal fleets, the company has announced. The Set-Back 113 can save about $6,000 in fuel costs each year, Sterling officials claimed. It’s powered by the Cummins Westport ISL G engine.

“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 8.9-litre engine is available with up to 320 hp and is already EPA2010-compliant.

“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,” added Shearing. “Plus, the technology simply burns cleaner.”