Peterbilt expands 'green' truck offerings

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Peterbilt announced it has now reached full production capability for its natural gas-powered Models 384, 365 and 320.

The trucks can be powered using either compressed (CNG) or liquefied (LNG) natural gas and are all SmartWay-certified, the truck maker announced.

"Our natural gas Models 384, 365 and 320 demonstrate our industry leadership in developing products that will reduce harmful emissions and provide exceptional fuel efficiency," said Bill Jackson, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice-president. "At Peterbilt, we're engineering environmental solutions that meet customers' reliability and durability expectations through alternative fuel and hybrid platforms. These clean powered platforms provide an environmental option for customers, without jeopardizing quality or performance."

All of Peterbilt's natural gas-powered trucks use the Cummins Westport ISL-G engine offering up to 320 hp. The trucks don't require diesel particulate filters or selective catalytic reduction.

Model 320 HLA

Peterbilt also announced it has entered limited production of its Model 320 HLA (Hydraulic Launch Assist) low cab-forward refuse truck.

"Testing has proven that the Model 320 Hybrid powered by Hydraulic Launch Assist technology is an ideal environmental option for refuse applications," Jackson said. "Municipalities and refuse customers have realized dramatic improvements in fuel economy and significant reductions in emissions and maintenance costs while operating the Model 320 Hybrid."

The Model 320 HLA is well-suited for refuse collection routes with 800-1,200 stops per day, Peterbilt said. It recovers up to 75% of energy normally lost while braking and stores that energy, using it to assist with acceleration. The company said brake replacement costs are reduced and double-digit fuel savings are usually achieved, resulting in a two-year payback even without government incentives.