Isuzu, Westport to develop prototype truck

Dec. 2, 2002
Canadian natural gas engine maker Westport Innovations and truck manufacturer Isuzu Motors of Tokyo plan to build a prototype Isuzu ELF natural-gas powered truck. The technology may eventually be used in Isuzu trucks sold in the United States. The project, initiated and funded by Isuzu, will use a diesel engine in the 4-liter range that runs solely on natural gas. The goal of this project is to build
Canadian natural gas engine maker Westport Innovations and truck manufacturer Isuzu Motors of Tokyo plan to build a prototype Isuzu ELF natural-gas powered truck. The technology may eventually be used in Isuzu trucks sold in the United States.

The project, initiated and funded by Isuzu, will use a diesel engine in the 4-liter range that runs solely on natural gas. The goal of this project is to build a natural gas-powered commercial truck that achieves the same performance and fuel efficiency as its diesel counterpart, but with lower emissions and fuel costs.

The ELF light-duty commercial truck would have a payload capacity of two to three tons and would be used for applications such as city deliveries, food services and light contracting. Isuzu plans to demonstrate a prototype to the Japanese government by June 2003.

About the Author

Sean Kilcarr | Editor in Chief

Sean reports and comments on trends affecting the many different strata of the trucking industry -- light and medium duty fleets up through over-the-road truckload, less-than-truckload, and private fleet operations Also be sure to visit Sean's blog Trucks at Work where he offers analysis on a variety of different topics inside the trucking industry.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!