Isuzu exploring dual fuel-powered truck
Focusing on reducing emissions and running costs, Isuzu Motors South Africa is exploring alternate propulsion technologies to include in its product portfolio.
In an attempt to provide more efficient propulsion options to its clients, Isuzu built prototype trucks propelled by compressed natural gas and dual powered options powered by both diesel and natural gas. “Our mission is to provide transport solutions to our customers, low-emission vehicles using alternate energy sources would be a great addition to our product portfolio. These trucks are not only a vital step toward reducing the emission of harmful pollutants; they will also contribute to the more effective utilisation of limited natural resources for transportation. We’ve built a handful of prototype trucks which are currently being tested in real-world conditions on South African roads by several Isuzu fleet customers. If the testing is successful we could see more of these trucks paving the way for a greener motoring landscape in future,” Dominic Rimmer, IMSAF Executive for Technical Services.
Based on the N-Series range, more specifically the NPR300 which has demonstrated its capabilities in a variety of operations, the NPR300 is a good starting point to explore the innovative alternate propulsion testing. With the addition of an automatic stop-start system in combination with the natural gas-powered engine, the N-Series truck promises to not only be more efficient and save costs but also be more environmentally friendly as it emits very low levels of Nitrogen Oxides, Carbon Monoxide, hydrocarbon and virtually no particulate matter.
Natural gas reserves exist around the world in significant quantities and are readily available. Besides, the gas is very safe and will even naturally return to nature should any leaks occur in the system. Also making use of gas as part of its propulsion system is the Isuzu FTR 850 AMT model. Utilising a D-gid ECU system, the FTR 850 can tick over using a mixture of diesel and natural gas without sacrificing a significant amount of torque and power output. The Diesel Dual Fuel technology can reduce its emissions and carbon footprint and improve operating costs by combining natural gas and diesel in the combustion cycle. The D-gid ECU unit automatically controls the diesel, and gas mixture based on what is required from the engine. The driver is also able to switch to 100% should the situation require.
“These initiatives are in line with Isuzu’s SEE (Safety, Economy & Environment) philosophy of continuously searching for efficient transport solutions which will reduce the impact on the environment and enable our customers to support the locally planned Green Transport strategy,” said Rimmer.
